A urologist has addressed which rumors about vasectomies are true and which are false.
Annually, approximately 500,000 vasectomies are performed in the United States. As women grow weary of being solely responsible for preventing unwanted pregnancies, this number is expected to rise.
Several celebrities have opted for this procedure, including Dax Shepard, James Van Der Beek, who is a father of six, and Brian Austin Green, who was previously married to Megan Fox.
Brian Austin Green, after welcoming a child with fiancée Sharna Burgess in June 2022, decided it was time to “close the shop,” according to Us Weekly.
Despite their prevalence, vasectomies are surrounded by myths that might deter individuals. Urologist Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt has stepped in to dispel these misconceptions and provide reassurance.
In an article for CNN, Dr. Jamin described the procedure as “typically a minor office-based procedure that requires minimal preparation.”
He elaborated: “After numbing the scrotal skin with a local anesthetic, the urologist makes a small opening in the skin, often so small that no stitches or scalpels are needed. From there, the doctor will find the vas deferens — the tube that carries sperm (made in the testicle) from a tightly coiled duct called the epididymis to the urethra prior to ejaculation. The vas deferens feels a bit like a piece of cooked spaghetti.
“The tube is brought out through the small opening, cut, sealed or blocked, preventing sperm from mixing with semen. The procedure is done on both sides, on both vas deferens, in a similar fashion. The cut ends are placed back into the scrotum, and the openings may be sealed with skin glue. Then you can go home and rest.”
Dr. Jamin addressed misconceptions regarding vasectomies affecting testosterone levels, sex drive, or sexual function, emphasizing that these concerns are unfounded.
He also mentioned that many couples experience an enhanced sex life post-procedure, as the fear of unwanted pregnancy is eliminated.
Additionally, Dr. Jamin explained that men will continue to ejaculate as before, but the semen will not contain sperm, thus being “blank.”
Regarding costs, some assume vasectomies are not covered by insurance, but Dr. Jamin clarifies that most insurance plans do cover the procedure either fully or partially.
He stated: “Some men assume vasectomies are expensive or not covered by insurance, but most insurance plans fully or partially cover the procedure.
“Even if you’re paying out-of-pocket, the cost is often less than $1,000, though prices can range from $500 to $3,000 depending on your location and whether you opt for anesthesia.”
For men without children considering a vasectomy, Dr. Jamin reassured that the procedure can be reversed should they decide to become parents later.
However, he advised against viewing vasectomies as a temporary measure, as reversal surgery can be costly and isn’t always successful.