MANILA -- A vasectomy is considered a permanent birth control method.
It prevents the release of sperm from mixing with the semen that is ejaculated from the penis. During a vasectomy, the vas deferens from each testicle is clamped, cut, or otherwise sealed.
However, majority of men hesitate to have a vasectomy because of the fear of losing their potential and sexual power, and become completely useless for women.
In DZMM's "Private Nights," Dr. Lulu Marquez explained the truth behind some myths regarding vasectomy.
If you’re considering a vasectomy, here are the five facts you must know:
1. MYTH: The procedure is painful
FACT: Vasectomy is done under local anesthesia, and most men who have undergone this procedure describe the pain as minimal. The other method is "no-scalpel vasectomy" which is a better option chosen by most men since there is little bleeding and has a faster recovery time.
2. MYTH: You won't be able to ejaculate
FACT: According to Dr. Marquez, the actual volume of sperm in the ejaculate is very small.
"Akala ng iba, 'yung sperm ay 'yung lahat ng ine-ejaculate. Ang sperm ay 2-5% lamang ng seminal fluid," she said.
3. MYTH: Testosterone levels will decrease
FACT: It is true that the testicles produce both sperm and testosterone. However, it makes testosterone and transports it through the blood vessel, not the vas deferens.
4. MYTH: Vasectomy causes erectile dysfunction
FACT: Due to the removal of the fear of pregnancy, studies suggest there is an improvement in sexual satisfaction after vasectomy for both men and women.
"Kapag naisip pa lang nila na hindi sila magkakaanak, mas tumataas ang gana sa pakikipagtalik," Dr. Marquez said.
5. MYTH: It is 100% effective right away
FACT: Dr. Marquez said that a man should take two to three months of having no sex with his partner to ensure there is no live sperm.
Even if vasectomy is considered a permanent birth control, there is also a procedure that reconnects the vas deferens. It is called "vasectomy reversal." This surgery, however, is more complicated and expensive and takes more time to recover the cut tubes.