$Unique_ID{BRK00876}
$Pretitle{Genitourinary System}
$Title{Is Vasectomy a Reliable Method of Birth Control?}
$Subject{tubal ligation vasectomy surgery birth control}
$Volume{J-15}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is Vasectomy a Reliable Method of Birth Control?


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QUESTION:  I am considering undergoing a vasectomy.  Is this procedure
considered a reliable method of birth control?  What if I want to change my
mind after the surgery, can it be reversed?

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ANSWER:  Vasectomy is a safe, effective and inexpensive method of birth
control.  It is usually done in a doctor's office under local anesthesia, and
you'll be able to return to light work after a couple of days of rest.
Discomfort and swelling are managed with ice packs, scrotal support, and
aspirin or similar pain relievers.  Swelling and tenderness should be gone
within about 72 hours of the procedure.  Stitches dissolve by themselves and
do not have to be removed.
     You can return to normal activity, including sexual intercourse, in about
seven days.  It is very important to continue to use contraceptives until your
doctor tells you the vasectomy has been successful.  Follow his advice
regarding semen analyses following the operation--if you neglect to have the
analyses done, you may still be producing sperm and thus may risk an unwanted
pregnancy.  Sterility is usually achieved after about six to eight weeks; it
takes this long to clear sperm from the reproductive tract.
     The operation should be considered permanent, and should not be performed
if you have any lingering doubts about your goals and intentions.  However,
many physicians report good results in reversing a vasectomy that was done
less than seven years ago, although there are no guarantees.
     About half the men who have had vasectomies have anti-sperm antibodies in
their bloodstream.  There was once controversy over whether these antibodies
were harmful, and, in particular, whether they caused heart disease, but no
real proof has been found that should cause concern.
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
