Getting a vasectomy is a big decision. You’ve probably been thinking about it for a while. Maybe you and your partner have had conversations about the size of your family. Maybe you’ve been talking with friends who have opinions on your reproductive health. Maybe you’re ready for a positive change in your sex life. You feel mostly confident in your decision. Here’s how to know when it’s time.
You’re at the Right Age
Can you be too young to make this important decision? Let’s look at your peers: 50 million American men have had vasectomies.
If you are still in your 20’s and considering a vasectomy, you may wonder if you will change your mind. That’s possible, but it doesn’t mean you’re too young.
You can’t be too old or too young to get a vasectomy. Your age doesn’t matter. What matters is that you’ve given this serious thought.
During your vasectomy consultation, your urologist will discuss your options and make suggestions based on your preferences.
Your Family is Complete
You’re sure that you don’t want any more children, or you’re sure you don’t children at all. Maybe your partner has a health condition that makes pregnancy a health risk. Maybe you or your partner are carriers for genetic disorders you don’t want to pass on. For most families, it’s about finding the perfect size. Whatever your reason, vasectomy is the most effective way to prevent unwanted pregnancies.
You’re Ready to Take Responsibility for Birth Control
Vasectomy is nearly 100% effective at preventing pregnancy. You can take the responsibility of birth control off your partner. She won’t have to remember to use birth control every day or manage the unpleasant side effects.
Plus, no more stopping the action to put on a condom and fuss around with the wrapper.
Women do have an option for permanent birth control, but a vasectomy is much easier and less invasive than tubal ligation. A tubal ligation can take up to three hours and requires general anesthesia. The recovery period is up to a week.
Tubal ligation is also less effective than a vasectomy. Vasectomy has a 0.15% failure rate; tubal ligation has a 0.5% failure rate. Failure of tubal ligation can result in an ectopic pregnancy. This causes a severe health risk and an unsuccessful, painful pregnancy.
You’re Not Afraid of the Procedure
…and you shouldn’t be! Despite some vasectomy myths, it’s a quick, simple procedure. It takes about 30 minutes, and it’s performed in our office. Recovery from a vasectomy is easy, too. For a couple of days after the procedure, you will want to get lots of rest and apply ice to reduce pain and swelling. After three days, you can return to work after three days. After a week, you can ease back into your regular physical activity. After two weeks, you should be back to your regular routine.