Crossing his legs and running for cover could simply mean that your partner is uninformed about the vasectomy procedure.
Before making the decision, both partners should be educated in what the procedure involves and you will then be able to make your decision with greater confidence.
The following questions and answers are commonly asked by others so compare this list with your concerns, and if still not sure, discuss with your doctor.
1.
Basically, what is a Vasectomy? In reality, it's a very simple 20 minute operation that leaves a man unable to father children.
It involves cutting the two tubes, called vas deferens, which run from the testes to the urethra.
Simply explained, this 'cut', in the two tubes, prevents the sperm from reaching the semen.
Although the man continues to have sexual intercourse and climax as before, as explained, his semen does not contain sperm and he cannot father a child after the vasectomy.
2.
How Is It Done? A Vasectomy is a simple procedure normally carried out in a day clinic, using a local anesthetic.
A small incision is made in the upper part of the scrotum under the penis.
The vas deferens are 'tied' off and then cut apart.
Depending on the size of the incision, it may require some stitching.
3.
Are There Any Complications? Yes, as in any surgical procedure, there could be complications and you should discuss this with your Doctor.
However, having made that point, a vasectomy ranks among the safest surgical procedures.
You will experience some minor bruising and discomfort (often described as a dull ache) but recovery takes only a few days.
4.
How Soon Afterward is it Effective? (Meaning "How soon Can I have Sex?) The operationIS NOT effective immediately.
After the operation, general thought is that it can take 16-20 ejaculations to expel all the stored sperm, before a man can be declared infertile.
Better safe that sorry! Men are able to resume a normal sex life as soon as they wake up from the operation, if they wish, but additional contraceptive measures are advisable for the first few weeks.
Above all, bear in mind, that a vasectomy does not mean that a man has to abstain from sex for any period of time, and that it also DOES NOT have any impact on your ability to get or sustain an erection.
5.
Can a Vasectomy be Reversed? You should consider a vasectomy to be permanent.
If there's any doubt, or if you think you might need your fertility again at a later stage, then this procedure is not for you.
There are delicate microsurgery operations that are quite complicated, that may be able to reverse the effects of the vasectomy, but there is no guarantee that the flow of sperm can be restored.
It is therefore best to assume that the procedure will be permanent.
6.
What is the cost of a Vasectomy? This can range from $600 to $1200, but this cost is covered under many health insurance programs.
Check if the cost is provided under the benefits of your coverage.
It is worth noting, that the cost is significantly lower than the cost of sterilization for women.