Does a Vasectomy
A question that a man may have when considering whether he will get a vasectomy is, “Will a vasectomy affect my sex life?”
Many men ask this very common question out of concern about how the procedure will affect different aspects of their sex lives, such as ejaculation, orgasm, and testosterone levels.
In most cases, vasectomies have no significant effect on sexual function or pleasure. Many who have undergone vasectomies report that their sex lives have improved drastically.
If you are considering getting a vasectomy and have questions about how the procedure will affect your sex life, then schedule a consultation with our doctors at Urology of Greater Atlanta. Our highly skilled physicians are here to educate and guide patients as they decide which course of action is best for them. Call us or book an appointment online today!
The Male Reproductive System
The male reproductive system consists of several organs that produce, store and transport sperm cells. These organs are the vas deferens, the epididymis, and the penis.
When there is sexual arousal in a man, the epididymis moves the sperm produced into the vas deferens. The vas deferens then combine the sperm with seminal fluid and transport the mixture into the penis, where it is then introduced into the woman’s reproductive system. This entire system is powered by male sex hormones such as testosterone.
How Vasectomies Work
Vasectomies are a very effective method of birth control. During a vasectomy procedure, a doctor will cut and tie the vas deferens and seal them with stitches or searing. A vasectomy prevents sperm from entering the seminal fluid.
However, semen is still produced and transported through the penis during sexual stimulation. After a vasectomy, the other processes in the male reproductive system should continue to function as expected.
Sex Drive After a Vasectomy
A man’s sex drive is usually unaffected after a vasectomy. The male hormone (testosterone) is produced by the testicles, which is one of the main hormones that are responsible for sex drive (libido).
Since a vasectomy only affects the flow of sperm through the vas deferens, this doesn’t impact the testosterone levels released into the bloodstream by the testicles. This process should be the same as it was before the procedure.
If you notice a change in your sex drive after a vasectomy, be sure to contact your doctor. Changes in libido could be due to the following factors:
- Medications such as antidepressants
- Stress or fatigue
- Alcohol or drug abuse
Do Vasectomies Affect Sexual Function?
Many men wonder whether a vasectomy will affect their sexual functionality, such as the ability to ejaculate and have an orgasm. The answer to these questions is explained below.
Ejaculation After a Vasectomy
Usually, the only difference after a vasectomy is that the sperm is missing from the male ejaculate. Sperm make up less than 5 percent of semen, so there should be no changes to the color and consistency of the ejaculate without sperm present.
The prostate gland and the seminal vesicles are responsible for producing semen. Since these remain untouched during a vasectomy procedure, they should function as they did before. Those who experience erectile dysfunction after a vasectomy should contact their doctor, as it may be due to another issue.
Orgasm After a Vasectomy
A vasectomy should not change the overall sensation of an orgasm. In the first few weeks after a vasectomy, some men notice that orgasms can feel uncomfortable and less intense due to slight swelling in the area.
However, this is indicative of your body still healing from the vasectomy procedure. After a month or two, your orgasms should return to their normal level of intensity.
Do Vasectomies Cause Erectile Dysfunction?
There should be no change to your ability to achieve and maintain an erection after a vasectomy procedure. The nerves and blood vessels involved in producing an erection are not touched during a vasectomy procedure.
However, erectile dysfunction can be a sign of other serious problems, such as diabetes or heart disease. It is essential to contact your doctor if you are having trouble achieving an erection after undergoing a vasectomy.
What Can I Do to Restore My Sex Drive After a Vasectomy?
Although most men notice no change in their sex drive after having a vasectomy, about 30% report changes in their sex life. In some cases, post-vasectomy complications can cause an infection or fluid backup. Other causes of a low sex drive after a vasectomy could be depression or lack of confidence.
Things to Do If You Have a Lower Sex Drive After a Vasectomy
Some things that can be done to restore your sex drive after a vasectomy include:
- Get a physical check-up with your doctor
- Make sure you are in good physical shape
- Talk to a sex therapist
- Communicate with your partner
If you have any questions about life after your vasectomy, schedule an appointment to speak with one of our expert healthcare professionals at Urology of Greater Atlanta. Our highly skilled physicians can walk you through what to expect before and after the procedure.
We look forward to answering all your questions regarding this procedure, the cost of a vasectomy, and much more. Call one of our offices in Georgia today or book an appointment online!
