The National Institute of Child Health and Development estimates that 500,000 American men have a vasectomy each year. Vasectomy is a birth control method that prevents the sperm developed in the testicles from exiting the urethra. To block the sperm, the physician clips the tubes carrying the sperm from the testicles and then ties the ends off or otherwise blocks the tubes. After a test to ensure there is no sperm in his semen, the man is considered sterile. There are several advantages to getting a vasectomy.
Permanence
A vasectomy is considered to be permanent birth control. Most other birth control methods have a chance of failure and require ongoing responsibility, such as remembering to take a pill, insert a device or apply a barrier. Permanence is often a psychological benefit, as well; many couples enjoy being able to share intimacy without the concern of a potential pregnancy.
Spontaneity
Having a vasectomy allows for more spontaneity than barrier methods do. This allows intercourse to be a natural progression of events, without the need to stop to use birth control or even to make sure birth control is available.
Simplicity
The process of a man getting a vasectomy is simpler than a woman having her tubes tied. It can be performed in the doctor's office, and the man usually misses only a few days of work at the most. The operation itself is safer than a tubal ligation and heals more quickly.
Fewer Side Effects
A vasectomy has fewer complications and side effects than a tubal ligation, birth control pills, intrautuerine devices (IUDs), vaginal rings, or other hormone-based birth control.
Economy
A vasectomy costs much less than a tubal ligation. Planned Parenthood reports that a vasectomy usually costs between $350 and $1,000. It may also be more economical than decades of birth control pills or other temporary methods.
