Sweetest Day: Flowers or a Vasectomy – which snip will she prefer?

By: Phillip Ginsberg, D.O., J.D.

Fresh cut flowers make for a nice Sweetest Day (October 19) gift. But a “snip” that lasts forever is a vasectomy.

This month MidLantic Urology recommends a “Snip for Your Sweetie” as a Sweetest Day gift if you are committed to not having children or if you’ve had the number you want. It’s among the most thoughtful ways of showing you care because it removes the responsibility of birth control from your partner, forever.

What Exactly Is a Vasectomy?

A vasectomy is considered a permanent form of sterilization because it prevents sperm from leaving the body.

The surgeon achieves this by removing small sections of the vas deferens, the tubes sperm travel through to reach the penis. The ends of the vas deferens are then sealed, and the incisions closed with a few stiches. If the surgeon uses the no-scalpel (puncture) technique, you won’t even need stitches.

Afterward, some sperm will remain in your system so you will need birth control for a few months until they’re cleared. Ask your doctor about a post-vasectomy semen analysis kit.

6 Benefits of Getting a Vasectomy

If you and your partner are certain about not having children, here are a few added benefits of a vasectomy over other forms of birth control that make it an especially thoughtful Sweetest Day gift.

1. It’s more foolproof than condoms. A vasectomy is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, a better rate than other forms of birth control because there’s no margin of error. Condoms are 98% effective when used perfectly, but 85% if not.
2. It frees your partner of “prevention” stress. Once your doctor confirms your semen is sperm-free (15 to 20 ejaculations), neither you nor your partner will need to take birth control again. This peace of mind can be priceless, because it relieves partners of the worry of unwanted pregnancies.
3. It ensures pause-free intimacy. Because a vasectomy is a one-and-done birth control treatment, your intimate moments won’t be disrupted by the need for a condom or other backup. You and your partner can enjoy spontaneous and more pleasurable sex, whenever: Nearly 25% of men lose their erections while putting on a condom.
4. It’s easy on your wallet. Depending on how often you plan to have sex, a vasectomy can be a money-saver. Annual out-of-pocket expenses for other forms of birth control can run from $150 to $2,000, depending on your health insurance. Vasectomies require just one payment and may be covered by your insurance policy.
5. There are no bedroom side effects. A vasectomy doesn’t affect hormone levels, so it won’t reduce your libido, sensations, or ability to get an erection. You’ll continue to ejaculate normally, but without sperm. Bonus: Your partner will no longer experience other birth control side effects.
6. Recovery is quick. For a week or so after the procedure, you may experience swollen, achy testicles and bruising. You can treat these symptoms with an ice pack, Tylenol, and couch rest. You’ll get a doctor’s note to avoid heavy lifting and exercise for five days. (You’ll also have to avoid intercourse for five days).

Weigh These Vasectomy Benefits Carefully

Like many great loves, a vasectomy lasts forever. So if you’re unsure of making the commitment, talk it out with a urologist. MidLantic Urology’s physicians evaluate all vasectomy candidates thoroughly to make sure they’re making the right decision.

Ready to talk to a urologist? Call the MidLantic Urology location closest to you