The thought of enduring a vasectomy procedure makes a lot of men uncomfortable, but vasectomy is an extremely effective contraception solution for men. The following article discusses vasectomy facts you may not have known, and that may influence your decision to have the procedure performed. Dr. Chirag A. Patel MD PhD. of NorCalVas provides Sacramento and surrounding communities with safe, fast, and affordable vasectomy procedures.

Approximately half a million American men elect to undergo vasectomies every year, yet the procedure is shrouded in mystery for a significant portion of the male population. Here are a few facts about vasectomy procedures that may help you decide whether or not the procedure is right for your goals and lifestyle.

After abstinence, vasectomy is the most effective form of male contraception. That’s right – vasectomies are more effective than any other available birth control method. The post-vasectomy pregnancy rate is 0.1%.

However, it’s not instantly effective. Vasectomies do not produce immediate results. There is still sperm above the vasectomy site, and until it leaves the body, pregnancy could still occur. Additional birth control measures should be taken until a semen sample shows that no sperm is present in ejaculate fluid, typically two months after the procedure.

Your sexual performance and desire will not be adversely affected. Men are still capable of producing semen after vasectomy, with no detectable change in volume or other characteristics. While vasectomies do not have a physiological effect on sex drive or sensation, some men report increased desire due to the strain of potential pregnancy being removed.

Vasectomy recovery is relatively short. You probably won’t have to take off work, unless your job requires a great deal of physical strain. You may resume your workout routine within one week, and discomfort is minimal. If there is soreness, it can be successfully managed with over-the-counter pain medication and cold compresses.

If you have a vasectomy, consider it a permanent solution. Vasectomies aren’t designed to be reversed. It is critically important that patients recognize that they should not be performed if they think that they may want children in the future.

Northern California Vasectomy specializes in outpatient no-scalpel vasectomy for men in the Redding, Elk Grove, and Sacramento communities. For more information about NorCalVas locations or to contact us regarding having a vasectomy performed please visit our contact page.