Why is Vasectomy getting more popular these days? A Vasectomy doctor’s viewpoint.
Vasectomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra. It’s a permanent method of contraception. It is also commonly called ‘male snip’. With the advancement in medical technology, vasectomy today has become a simple, quick, almost painless, minimally invasive day procedure. Unlike in the past, no scalpel (surgeon’s blade) is used, and only small hole, about 4-5mm in length is made in the centre of scrotal skin instead of two incisions resulting in no scar in the scrotal skin. Some clinics even use no needle devices for giving local anaesthetic making it a painless procedure. This is why the popularity of ‘No Scalpel’ vasectomy is ever rising.
Men choose vasectomy for several reasons:
Very Effective Contraception
Vasectomy is highly effective at preventing pregnancy. It is over 99.9% effective when compared to oral pills( 91% ), condoms (88% ), rod in the arm (99%) or IUD (99%). A few months after the procedure, sperm are no longer present in the ejaculate, so fertilization cannot occur.
Convenience
Compared to other forms of contraception, such as hormonal pills or condoms, vasectomy is a one-time procedure that does not require any ongoing maintenance or medication. Once the procedure is done, two semen tests are done a few months later to confirm that it has been successful, and there is no need for follow up whatsoever.
Reliability
Once the procedure is successful and confirmed, it offers a very reliable method of contraception, reducing the chances of any accidental pregnancies.
Reproductive choice for men
Vasectomy allows men to take control of their reproductive choices. It’s often chosen by couples or individuals who are confident in their decision to not have any or any more children. It is also a lifestyle choice for many men or couples because if they do not want children, they can get a vasectomy done any time.
Non-Hormonal
Unlike many contraceptives for women, vasectomy is a non-hormonal form of contraception, which can be appealing to men since they do not have to worry about the side effects of hormones. Again, in most instances, it is a joint decision made by couples to get vasectomy. This is a very precious gift any man can give to his partner because she does not have to tolerate the side effects of hormones besides the trauma of going through pregnancies and childbirths from an unwanted pregnancy.
Reversible in some cases
While vasectomy is intended to be permanent, in some cases, it can be reversed through a procedure called vasectomy reversal. This reversal operation is costly and not always successful. Again, the success of reversal depends upon a few factors like the length of time since the vasectomy, general health and age of the person, vasectomy technique used and other individual factors. Vasectomy may not be a right option for a man if he is unsure about whether he wants children or not and if he is considering reversal operation in future.
Cost-Effective
Vasectomy is a ‘once in a lifetime’ procedure and there is no maintenance or follow up costs. Over the long term, vasectomy can be cost-effective compared to other forms of contraception like oral pills or condoms that require regular purchases. Even though the initial cost of vasectomy is not cheap in NSW, ranging from $700 to $1000 in clinics (much higher cost in hospitals), with no maintenance cost, it works out much cheaper in the long run. Most vasectomy clinics do not bulk bill the procedure but there is some rebate from Medicare and some Health Funds also cover some cost if men have private health insurance.
Partner’s Health
Some men choose vasectomy for health reasons related to their partner’s health or the potential risks associated with pregnancy. The trauma of their partner going through the process of pregnancy and childbirth repeatedly compels many men to do a vasectomy.
Increasing cost of raising a child
The ever-rising cost of raising a child, giving good education, and looking after the health and wellbeing of a child often takes toll on the parents. Looking after a child can be very demanding, stressful, and exhausting for parents. This is why more and more couples and men discuss their reproductive goals and make an informed decision on how many children they want to have.
Conclusion
It is important to note that while vasectomy is a very safe, reliable, and effective method of contraception suited for many men and couples, it is also a permanent method. All individuals should carefully consider their reproductive goals and decide if vasectomy is the best option for them. It is important to consult with their healthcare professionals before undergoing the procedure and make an informed decision. Most vasectomy doctors in NSW offer free pre-procedure consultation or Teleconsultation. So, it is wise for men and couples to call a vasectomy doctor or arrange a consultation with their doctor and get the right information before arranging to do a vasectomy.
Please note that the most advanced technique in Vasectomy is ‘No Scalpel, Open Ended’ procedure. Some clinics also use needle less device for local anaesthetic.
For more information, please call 0490813714, email: info@gentleproceduressydney.com.au or visit: https://gentleproceduressydney.com.au/