A vasectomy is one of the safest, most effective forms of permanent birth control for men. Yet, despite its long track record, many men hesitate due to fears about possible side effects. Questions about performance, hormones, cancer risk, or even what happens to sperm after the procedure are common. Unfortunately, inaccurate information is common, too. To help separate fact from fiction, here are five of the most common myths about vasectomy side effects and what you really need to know.
5 Vasectomy Side Effects Myths
Myth 1: Vasectomy causes impotence or affects sexual performance
Some men worry that a vasectomy will interfere with erections, orgasm, or overall sexual satisfaction. Given the location of the procedure, this concern is understandable; however, there is no evidence to support it.
A vasectomy only blocks the small tubes that carry sperm. It does not involve the structures that control arousal or performance. The nerves and blood vessels that allow the penis to become erect are left completely intact. Hormone production in the testicles also continues as normal, and male functions do not change, including:
- Sex drive
- Masculinity
- Energy
- Muscle strength
After recovery, men are still able to get and maintain erections. They can also experience orgasm and ejaculate semen just as they did before the surgery. The only difference is that the semen no longer contains sperm.
For many men and their partners, sexual activity actually feels more relaxed and fulfilling since the chance of pregnancy is removed. Couples have also described a stronger sense of freedom and spontaneity.
Myth 2: Vasectomy lowers testosterone levels
Testosterone is the hormone that drives male sexual health. It is made in the testicles and released directly into the bloodstream. A vasectomy only blocks the pathway for sperm. Testosterone production continues as normal.
Blood tests after vasectomy show no change in hormone levels. Men do not lose their masculine traits, and their sex drive remains the same.
Myth 3: Vasectomy increases the risk of prostate cancer
The prostate is a small gland located just below the bladder that helps produce semen. Prostate cancer develops when the cells in this gland divide abnormally. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, but it often grows slowly and can be treated effectively when found early.
Large, long-term studies have shown that vasectomy does not increase prostate cancer risk. Men should, however, continue to follow prostate health guidelines. This includes routine screening starting around age 50, or earlier if they have risk factors such as family history.
Myth 4: Vasectomy prevents ejaculation
It’s a common misconception that semen disappears after a vasectomy. This is not true. Men continue to produce the same amount of semen, and ejaculation feels the same.
Sperm are the microscopic cells that carry genetic material. Semen is the fluid released during ejaculation. A vasectomy only blocks sperm from entering the semen; it does not stop semen production. After the procedure, men still ejaculate normally, but the fluid no longer contains sperm. Men cannot tell the difference by look, feel, or sensation.
Myth 5: Sperm builds up and causes harm after a vasectomy
A common worry is that blocked sperm will accumulate and damage the body. What actually happens is the same natural process that happens when sperm are not used between ejaculations. The body recycles them without causing pain, illness, or hormonal changes. The testicles keep producing sperm, but instead of leaving during ejaculation, the body resorbs them.
Schedule Your Vasectomy Today
A vasectomy is a safe, straightforward procedure that provides long-term, reliable birth control. Myths about vasectomy side effects, like performance issues, can create unnecessary anxiety. But the fact is that most men recover quickly, resume their normal sex lives, and experience no long-term complications.
Don’t delay experiencing the freedom of permanent birth control any longer – schedule an appointment today!