The benefits and drawbacks of male sterilization

Male sterilization is a common contraceptive method that achieves contraceptive effect by blocking the vas deferens. It has the advantages of good contraceptive effect and simple operation, but there are also potential risks such as postoperative discomfort and possible impact on sexual function in rare cases.

1. Contraceptive Effect

Male sterilization involves surgical cutting or blocking of the vas deferens to prevent sperm from entering semen, resulting in a success rate of over 95% in contraception. This method does not require women to take hormone drugs, avoiding the side effects of drugs, and is suitable for couples who have completed their family planning for long-term contraception. After sterilization, it is necessary to regularly check the semen to confirm the absence of sperm before fully relying on this method of contraception.

2. Convenient Surgery

Vasectomy is a minor outpatient surgery that can be completed in about 20 minutes under local anesthesia, with minimal trauma and fast recovery. Compared to female tubal ligation, male tubal ligation surgery has shorter time, lower cost, and lower probability of complications. After surgery, only one to two days of rest are needed to restore light physical activity without affecting normal work and life.

III. Economic Burden

As a one-time contraceptive measure, there is no need to continuously purchase contraceptive products or pay related medical expenses after sterilization. In the long run, it can save expenses such as condoms and birth control pills, especially suitable for families with limited economic conditions. In some areas, family planning services also provide free sterilization surgery to further reduce economic costs.

Fourth, postoperative discomfort

There may be swelling, bruising, or mild pain in the scrotum after surgery, which usually resolves on its own within a week. In rare cases, hematoma or infection may occur, requiring medical intervention. Some men may experience psychological pressure after surgery, fearing that it will affect their male characteristics, but the actual secretion of testosterone is not affected by the surgery.

V. Functional Effects

Ligation theoretically does not affect erectile function and sexual pleasure, but individual cases have reported chronic pain or psychological dysfunction after surgery. Surgery is irreversible, and although fertility can be restored through recanalization, the success rate decreases with age, making it suitable for men who do not want to have more children.

Before choosing sterilization, it is necessary to fully consult and understand the details of the surgery and one's own health condition. Keep the wound clean and dry after surgery, and avoid vigorous exercise for a week. Pay attention to supplementing high-quality protein and vitamins in diet to promote tissue repair. Regularly check the quality of semen, and other contraceptive measures should still be taken in the early postoperative period. Both husband and wife should participate in decision-making together, make psychological adjustments, and have a correct understanding of the impact of sterilization on sexual life. If there is persistent pain or abnormal bleeding, seek medical attention promptly for examination.