Sometimes, the only thing holding men back from scheduling a vasectomy consultation is an old myth or misconception about the procedure that they overheard from a friend or a TV show. Vasectomies offer many benefits, but being held back from effective, permanent contraception just because of an (often childish) myth is unfortunate.

San Diego Vasectomy Center understands the hesitation men can feel when considering a vasectomy, and we do not intend to downplay these concerns or treat them disrespectfully. We simply wish to clear up long-held myths that are factually untrue so men can feel confident moving forward with their family-planning needs without undue fear.

Vasectomy myths, debunked

1. It’s going to hurt – a lot.

Minor to mild discomfort is the most popular way to describe the vasectomy procedure and recovery period. The San Diego Vasectomy Center utilizes Exparel in our No Needle No Scalpel Vasectomy, a long-lasting anesthetic that provides relief from any pain you may feel for up to three days post-vasectomy. In the initial hours and days post-procedure, men may feel some swelling and bruising, but it will be minor and can be soothed with a bag of frozen peas and over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief medication.

2. Sex is off-limits for months.

Men are advised to resume intercourse only when they feel comfortable doing so, and this typically takes around three to four weeks. Men do not need to wait months to resume having sex, but they do need to use contraception until a semen test confirms that the semen is free of sperm. This test takes place about three months after the vasectomy. It’s important to remember that a vasectomy will not protect against the spread of STDs.

3. Men need to take a lot of time off work.

There is no need to take a lot of time off from work. In fact, many vasectomy patients schedule their procedures on a Friday so they can spend the weekend in recovery. Men can return to work, barring any heavy lifting, within two to three days after a vasectomy.

4. Men stop producing sperm.

Men will continue to create sperm after having a vasectomy, but sperm simply will no longer travel outside of the body upon ejaculation. Ejaculate post-procedure looks no different than it did prior to the vasectomy.

5. Sex drive drops.

No, a vasectomy will not harm sex drive. Many patients report an increase in their sex drive after a vasectomy because the procedure brings an element of spontaneity to intercourse.