What Age Is Best for a Vasectomy?
Having children is a big decision and a big responsibility, one that not everyone is prepared to make. Maybe you already have a big enough family, don’t wish to be a father, or have a partner who, for health reasons, can’t be on birth control.
Whatever the reason, many men choose to have a vasectomy to take control of this aspect of their lives and futures. If you’ve ever wondered what age is best for a vasectomy, learn more about the procedure to help you figure out when it might be best to consider it.
The Best Age for a Vasectomy
While it might make the choice easier, there really isn’t a single answer as to when the best age for a vasectomy would be. That said, there are certain insights you can use based on the various ages at which people commonly get vasectomies.
Under 18
At this point in time, no state allows anyone under the age of 18 to get a vasectomy. There are currently no documented cases of legal vasectomies performed on anyone below that age in the United States, so you would need to wait until at least 18 before making the decision. Doctors may even deny a vasectomy to those who have just turned 18 for various reasons.
20 to 50
The majority of vasectomies happen after the age of 30, with 35 being about the average. Many consider this a good age for the procedure, as you’ve likely established yourself and have a clearer understanding of whether or not you want children.
Doctors generally recommend a minimum age of 25 before they perform the procedure to reduce the risk of regret. Many will also require a two to three-day waiting period to allow patients to change their minds.
Over 50
There is no reason someone over the age of 50 could not get a vasectomy, provided they are in generally good health and have no underlying conditions that might make the surgery a risk. Testicles continue to produce sperm at any age, so a vasectomy could be a potential benefit to older adults who are sexually active.
Why Consider a Vasectomy?
A vasectomy is a mostly permanent means of birth control, preventing the creation of sperm cells. This makes it physically impossible to impregnate someone during sexual intercourse.
The Pros and Cons of a Vasectomy
Assuming you want a vasectomy, being unable to have children would be a positive outcome. Taking control of your reproductive health is always a good thing, and giving yourself the choice for this can provide peace of mind. It’s entirely possible to reverse a vasectomy, as well, meaning you have options if you ever reconsider. It also means you won’t have to use other forms of birth control like condoms, as there is no longer any sperm to block.
Like any surgery, though, a vasectomy does carry some (small) risk. Infections and bleeding are possible, as is a condition called granuloma, where sperm leaks into the scrotum after the procedure is completed. There is also a slight chance the procedure fails, which could lead to accidental pregnancy. There is also a chance that a vasectomy reversal could fail, as well as be expensive or complicated.
Questions to Ask Before Getting a Vasectomy
How can I prepare for my vasectomy?
Vasectomies are simple procedures that do not require much prep. Consult with your doctor for any specific instructions, particularly around medication you may be taking. You could also trim the hair in your lower area if it’s particularly thick. If desired, you may wish to bank sperm to use in the future.
Is there a situation where getting a vasectomy would be unsafe?
In general, a vasectomy is one of the safest procedures one can have. However, if you suffer from frequent infections, are particularly unfit for surgery, or have other conditions that would make surgery risky, a vasectomy may not be for you.
What happens after a vasectomy?
Use an ice pack to dull any lingering pain you might feel after the procedure. In most cases, you can resume normal activities within a few days of a vasectomy, and you can even begin having sex after a week has passed. Use other forms of birth control until a lab test confirms you no longer produce sperm.
Are there side effects?
As mentioned, side effects are uncommon, but things like bleeding or infection can happen. Granuloma is also possible, as is a chance for failure.
Schedule an Appointment With Upstate Urology Today
If you think a vasectomy might be for you, schedule an appointment with Upstate Urology today. Take control of your health and future with this simple and safe procedure.
Featured Image: Volha_R / Shutterstock
