Nonsurgical Vasectomy: A Safe Alternative?

The nonsurgical vasectomy, or no scalpel vasectomy, is a modern alternative to the conventional microscopic vasectomy. Invented by a Chinese surgeon years ago, this procedure was introduced to American hospitals in the year 1988 and has been increasing in popularity ever since. But why is it so popular? What makes it different from the traditional procedure? Why should you care? These are all question that will be answered, if you keep reading!

Why it is Popular

The popularity of this procedure is a direct result of the ease with which it is performed. Rather than making incisions that result in excessive bleeding (excessive in comparison to the no scalpel approach), scarring, and stitches, this method simply leaves a tiny pin sized mark (if any). Instead of cutting a slit, this procedure just opens a hole, separates the tube, and seals the holes made in the tube. This reduces the risk of infection, as there is much faster healing and much lower vulnerability (resulting from open wounds). Additionally, it is much easier to reverse this procedure through a microscopic vasectomy reversal, as there will be less scar tissue to cut through. Finally, though vasectomy prices differ based on who your vasectomy doctor is, this procedure is generally cheaper than conventional vasectomies.

Why it Matters

There is a small vasectomy failure rate, as some do experience a vasectomy problem. This is generally the result of recanalization (the tubes reconnecting spontaneously). Another problem that occurs is infection (but as mentioned, the risk is pretty much eliminated using this approach). Finally, there is the most important factor in getting a vasectomy:

SEX!

Sex is the motivation for vasectomies, as nobody would get one if they didn't want to eliminate the risk of pregnancy. Sex after vasectomy procedures can be just as fulfilling as ever, but the first few times, men will experience pain. Additionally, vasectomies cannot always be reversed. However, it is possible to have a pregnancy after vasectomy reversal (if your body can handle the reversal procedure). The benefit of the no scalpel approach is that it opens the opportunity for a vasectomy reversal in the future. It is important to know that you can experience a vasectomy and still have a pregnancy. The reason is that good sperm will still exist (in lower quantity) after the procedure. Even though vasectomy effectiveness is very high, there is still a small vasectomy failure rate. To reduce this risk, always have a follow up exam.

Alternatives

Before going though with this operation, it is important to analyze every vasectomy alternative. Most of the alternatives involve birth control and condoms, but because the operation can't always be reversed, it is something you should think about. Finally, there is also the option of having the female partner undergo tubal ligation or "getting her tubes tied". The reason this is not recommended, though, is because women have a much greater chance of detrimental side effects than men do with the equivalent procedure. Keep this in mind as you consider this operation and, remember, it's better to not have sex than it is to have a life changing operation that you may regret.