There are many contraceptive methods widely used worldwide. Some are used by women, while others are used by men. I will try to explain this topic through questions and answers for better understanding.
There are 3 methods that men can use for contraception:
1- Withdrawal method: Relies on ending sexual intercourse before ejaculation. This method is problematic for both parties in terms of enjoyment, and the failure rate ranges from 4-18%.
2- Condom: A cheap and effective method widely used. The failure rate ranges from 2-5%. It has drawbacks such as decreased pleasure during intercourse, the need to use it in every intercourse, the problem of disposal after intercourse, and the side effect of latex sensitivity in some individuals. Among the main benefits of this method is protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
3- Vasectomy: It is a version of tubal ligation in females. However, while this procedure is extremely complex for females, it is relatively simple for men and is performed through a small incision of 2-3 millimeters in size within 15 minutes. It is the most effective method of contraception increasingly used worldwide. The success rate is considered 100%.
The reason for this is the known misconceptions about this topic. Men believe that after the procedure, their testicles will be removed, they will not be able to have sexual intercourse, they will not be able to ejaculate or enjoy sexual intercourse. In short, they believe they will lose their masculinity. The biggest reason for this is the belief that the procedure resembles animal castration. However, in vasectomy, the blood vessels that supply the testicle are not cut. These blood vessels maintain testicular health and transport male hormones produced there. As illustrated, in vasectomy, the spermatic ducts are cut, not the blood vessels to the testicle, so this does not cause any harm to the testicle.
As mentioned above, tubal ligation in females does not cause any disturbance in sexual functions, and therefore, tying the spermatic ducts in males does not cause any disturbance in sexual functions. There is no change after the procedure in erection, ejaculation, enjoyment of sexual climax, or sexual desire.
It is a procedure that does not require hospitalization, where the sac covering the testicles is incised with a size of about half a centimeter using local anesthesia, then the spermatic ducts are tied and cut. The patient is placed on his back on the table, and after cleaning the sac with an antiseptic solution, local anesthesia is injected on the right and left sides of the sac using a thin needle. The spermatic tube is pulled out of the specified incision and cut, then reinserted. After that, the wound is closed with gradually absorbable sutures. It is advisable to apply a small dressing.
After vasectomy, it is recommended to rest for 2-3 days, and after a week, an appointment is arranged to check the condition. Usually, there is no need for antibiotics or painkillers.
It should be remembered here that avoiding sexual intercourse without another contraceptive method is necessary for up to 3 months after vasectomy because sperm remains in the upper cut part of the duct. After about 20 erections or after 3 months, a semen analysis is performed to confirm the absence of sperm.
The complication rate is less than 1%. The most common complications are bleeding in the operation area, infection, and the formation of a fluid-filled lump called a spermatocele. The spermatocele does not cause any symptoms. Infection is usually controlled with antibiotics, and bleeding is usually controlled with a bandage.
According to Law No. 2827 accepted in 1983 in our country, any person over the age of 18 and with their personal consent, and if married, with the consent of their wife as well, can undergo vasectomy.
We specifically recommend vasectomy for those who are absolutely sure they do not want to have children again. However, if there is a desire to have children again for any reason, children can be obtained through two methods.
1- Reversal of vasectomy: A surgical procedure where the spermatic ducts are reconnected and cut in a larger section than the initial incision. It is a more complex and difficult procedure compared to the first one and requires extensive expertise. The success rate is not high, and the costs are high.
2- Artificial insemination: Pregnancy can be achieved through manual egg fertilization. This method is also not guaranteed.
