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Vasectomy: Effect on testosterone levels and sexual function – Medical News Today
Vasectomy is the medical term for male sterilization. It is a medical procedure that involves cutting or sealing the tubes that carry sperm into seminal fluid, or semen. While this procedure permanently prevents the semen from containing any sperm, it does not affect testosterone levels.
People considering a vasectomy may worry that their testosterone levels, libido, and sexual functioning will decrease following the procedure. However, vasectomy has no effect on testosterone levels or sexual function.
Additionally, evidence suggests that people who undergo the procedure may experience improvements in their sex life.
This article asks whether a vasectomy affects testosterone levels, libido, and sexual functioning. We also outline some potential long-term side effects and health risks of vasectomy and clarify some common myths about the procedure.
A vasectomy is a medical procedure that involves cutting or sealing the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the penis. This prevents sperm from reaching the seminal fluid, or semen, which a male ejaculates during sex.
Males who have undergone vasectomy will continue to ejaculate semen, but the semen will not contain sperm.
A vasectomy alters the mechanics that make pregnancy possible, but it does not cause biological changes in males. As such, a vasectomy does not affect testosterone levels a 2018 study found that these procedures had no long-term impact on testosterone levels in men.
Hormonal imbalance occurs when the body produces too much or too little of a certain hormone.
No current evidence suggests vasectomies cause hormonal imbalance in males. For example, a 2018 study showed that these procedures do not affect testosterone levels in men.
Some causes of hormonal imbalances in biological males include:
All surgical procedures have the potential to cause side effects, though vasectomies carry a relatively low risk.
Some potential long-term side effects of vasectomy include:
According to a 2021 review, there is no increased risk with vasectomy and the following health conditions:
However, the review concluded that further study with long-term observation is necessary.
In older guidelines, American Urological Association also stated that vasectomy is not a risk factor for:
A person with concerns about the potential short- or long-term side effects of vasectomy can speak with a doctor.
Current evidence does not suggest that vasectomy causes erectile dysfunction or any form of sexual dysfunction.
A 2020 proposed systematic review notes that studies have demonstrated the following improvements in sexual function among males who have undergone a vasectomy:
A vasectomy prevents sperm from entering semen, which a male releases during ejaculation. It does not affect the production of the hormone testosterone, which is responsible for sex drive.
Sperm makes up a very small amount of male ejaculate, so sexual satisfaction should also not decrease.
In fact, according to a 2017 study, biological males who underwent a vasectomy experienced greater sexual satisfaction following the procedure.
In general, medical professionals view vasectomies as relatively low risk procedures. Most people who undergo a vasectomy can:
However, like all procedures, there are risks of short- and long-term side effects.
According to a 2021 review, common short-term side effects include:
The same review notes the following potential long-term complications:
A person considering undergoing a vasectomy may worry about how the procedure will affect their life.
Studies have shown that a persons sex life can actually improve following a vasectomy. Many people who undergo the procedure report increased sexual activity and sexual satisfaction.
However, some people may experience ongoing fears or concerns relating to vasectomy. A 2018 study noted that individuals who have undergone the procedure may benefit from psychological counseling to address these fears and concerns.
There are many rumors surrounding vasectomy, including those relating to the procedure itself, the risks involved, and the changes a vasectomy may bring to a persons life.
Below are some myths and facts associated with vasectomies.
Fact: Recent studies have shown the opposite is true. Most people report having improved libido, and there may also be improved erections and orgasms following the procedure.
Fact: Most people who undergo vasectomy could return to work within 3 days, and most can resume sex and exercise within 12 weeks.
Fact: While vasectomies are the most effective form of birth control, they do not take effect immediately. A couple will need to continue to use other forms of birth control for several months following the procedure and until a doctor confirms the absence of sperm in the semen.
Fact: Though uncommon, a person can have a vasectomy reversal if they change their mind about having children in the future. However, reversals can sometimes fail, so they should only have a vasectomy if they feel confident that they do not want more children.
Vasectomy is a medical procedure that involves cutting or sealing the tubes that carry sperm into semen. The procedure permanently prevents pregnancy.
People considering a vasectomy may worry about the consequences for their sexual function. However, the evidence suggests that vasectomies have no effect on testosterone levels and have a mostly positive effect on sexual function and satisfaction.
Vasectomies also have a low incidence of both short- and long-term health complications, and doctors generally view the procedure as safe and effective in preventing pregnancy.
However, while it is usually possible to reverse a vasectomy, they sometimes fail. As such, a person should only consider a vasectomy if they feel confident that they do not want any further children.
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Vasectomy: Effect on testosterone levels and sexual function - Medical News Today
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