A vasectomy is a safe minor surgical procedure that cuts and seals the sperm ducts stopping sperm travelling from the testicles to the penis.
As the vast majority of vasectomies in Ireland are done privately in clinics around the country, there is no accurate estimate on the number of men who get the snip here, but it is on the increase.
Our expert, Eleanor Galvin explains everything you need to know about 'getting the snip' (because let's be honest, it is usually the woman that starts the ball rolling (no pun intended)
It is carried out under local anaesthetic. It has a very low failure rate of approximately 1 in 2000. For the first 3 or 4 months, you need to continue to use a different form of contraceptive as you need to have 2 sperm samples analysed to be clear of sperm to ensure the procedure has been a success.
It costs from €350-€500 to have it carried out. While this may appear to be a lot of money, compared to the cost of contraception over many years, it is a lot cheaper. Vasectomies can be carried out for at no cost for men who have a medical card.
There are many reasons that men decide to have one carried out- their partner may have difficulty finding a contraceptive that suits them or they may wish to take the burden of remembering daily pills from their partner. The most important thing in deciding that you wish to get a vasectomy is that you are sure that you definitely want no more children. It is important that a couple discuss this fully.
While vasectomies can be reversed, with variable rates of success, it is important that you never have one done if you have lingering doubts. If you are your partner are even asking yourself that question - don’t do it!
Recovery from a vasectomy is generally quick and many return to work in three or four days, wearing tighter underwear to minimise bruising or swelling. An ice pack for the initial few hours after surgery is helpful. Lie down and rest for at least 24 hours after surgery.
Although minor, like all surgery it has risks – and no surgery should be undertaken lightly.
Some men suffer bleeding, bruising and continuing discomfort and some men have ongoing pain.
These are relatively rare and treated by the doctor who undertook the surgery.
Don't forget it is nearly always the woman is looking for information for their partner. Sometimes it takes time for them to get there head around voluntarily letting someone do a however minor surgical procedure on their most tender parts.
Compared to female sterilisation (“having your tubes tied”) - this is literally a snip, with no need for general anaesthetic, hospital stay and has way less serious and frequent consequences.
It is a good idea if they have a GP to have the consultation, and also talk to any male friends who have had it done- some are more open than others to chat.
