Vasectomies and basketball—what’s the connection?

In March, the media often makes a connection between March Madness and vasectomies. Why? Well, men who are considering a vasectomy often schedule it around the tournament so that they have a built-in excuse to stay home and watch. If you really need a reason for timing, maybe it’s not such a bad idea.

Having a family is a personal and serious conversation for any couple. While many people enjoy large families, some prefer only a few children or none at all. Depending on their life situation, some men decide that a vasectomy is the right permanent choice for their family planning. 

However, as with many medical issues, men may shy away from this simple procedure out of fear. Here are some basic facts men should know about vasectomies: 

• It is an outpatient procedure that only takes about 30 minutes, using local anesthesia.
• Most men tolerate the procedure very well, with only minimal discomfort for a few days.
• It does not affect sexual functions or sensations or visibly change the semen.
• Through two tiny incisions a small section of the vas deferens (the tube that carries sperm) is removed.

A vasectomy should be considered a permanent decision. Although a reversal is sometimes possible, it’s effectiveness cannot be guaranteed.

One important reminder to all men is to schedule a follow-up visit with your urologist a few weeks after the procedure to ensure it was successful. While vasectomies are highly effective, you should use birth control until your physician determines you are completely sterile.

If you’ve been thinking about a vasectomy, now may be the time to take a shot and schedule it.

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