Vasectomy
This
occurs when a surgical ligation or removal of a segment of the
vas deferens is done bilaterally to render a male sterile, or
unable to reproduce. It does not effect a man's ability to have
sex or to enjoy orgasm. It is a permanent form of birth control
and should be considered when is truly sure they do not want
any children.
Effectiveness:
Vasectomy is very effective. In the first year of sterilization,
less than 1 in 1,000 couples will experience accidental pregnancy
if they take the proper precautions. A man is still fertile
for some time immediately after a vasectomy, so the couple should
continue to use another birth control method for the first three
months or 20 ejaculations after the surgery, whichever comes
first. (this advice may vary from urologist to urologist).
The
Pros:
1) While it is a surgical procedure, it is typically thought
of safe and very effective.
2)
Safer and much less the cost of a tubal ligation.
3)
Sexual intercourse can be spontaneous!
4)
Sexual function and drive is not a problem.
The
Cons:
1) Fear of the procedure and outcome.
2)
There is some discomfort, swelling, and slight bruising after
the operation. Following the physician's advice post-op should
help alleviate any problems.
3)
Sterility is not immediate!
4)
Regrets later if a child is wanted. It is a difficult thing
to reverse.
5)
Obviously, it offers no protection against STD's, so in some
cases a condom would still be needed.
Extras:
1) What Does It Cost? The operation typically costs $1,000,
but may cost less depending on where it is performed.
Tubal
Ligation
Abdominal
surgery in which the fallopian tubes are tied off and a section
is removed to interrupt tubal continuity and thus sterilize
the woman. It is a very effective and permanent means of birth
control, and should only be considered if you do not want anymore
children. Eggs are released in the ovaries, then travel through
the fallopian tubes to the uterus. Tubal sterilization is a
small operation which blocks and damages these tubes. After
this operation your eggs will have no way to get to your uterus.
And the man’s sperm will have no way to get to your egg.
Effectiveness:
Tubal sterilization is very effective, although not completely
effective. Among typical couples who choose this method, less
than 1 in 100 will experience an accidental pregnancy.
The
Pros:
1) Nothing to think about, so sex can be spontaneous!
2)
Sexual drive and function is not affected.
3)
Effective and permanent sterilization.
The
Cons:
1) Surgical risks include possible damage to other organs in
abdomen, bleeding which may require a transfusion, and a risk
of infection where the incision was made.
2)
Post-op discomfort is possible but easily managed with medication.
3)
If pregnancy does occur, there is a much higher risk that the
pregnancy will implant outside the uterus, such as in the fallopian
tubes. This is called a tubal or ectopic pregnancy. It cannot
develop into a full-term baby, and must be removed so it does
not endanger your health.
4)
Method is NOT easily reversed.
5)
It offers no protection from STD's and HIV.
Extras:
1) What Does It Cost?
The operation typically costs from $2,000 to $4,000. It may
be significantly less depending on where it is performed. Check
with your insurance or HMO to learn if they will pay for this
operation. Medicaid pays for the operation as long as you sign
a form no more than six months before the operation, but no
less than 30 days before the operation. Medicaid will not pay
for reversing the procedure.
2)
When Should I Call My Healthcare Provider?
Call your healthcare provider if you have a high fever. Call
if the wound site is red, swollen, bleeding, or if you see pus,
and if the area is getting worse. Call if you have bad abdominal
pain or dizziness.
Disclaimer:
Clitical does not promote one method
of birth control over another. This is merely an informational
section with guidelines you should consider before choosing
the best possible birth control for you and your partner to
follow. It is important to see your physician when using some
birth control methods and when any problems arise with any of
the discussed methods that can be found below.
Hormonal
Methods ~ Barrier
Methods ~ Surgical
Methods
IUD's
~ Natural
Methods ~ Emergency
Contraception
Back
To Birth Control Index
