Vasectomy Risk - The Threat of Pregnancy After the Procedure

The vasectomy risk that all couples are dreading is the "P" word - pregnancy. Many are surprised to find out that the hazard of unwanted pregnancy is still present even after a seemingly long period has passed since the vasectomy was done. Many are even frustrated that such a danger could even be possible even if the duct that facilitates the passage of sperm to the semen has already been severed.

Contrary to popular misconception, vasectomy is only considered as a minor surgical procedure. As with any other surgical operation, risks are always present and cannot be counted out in any stage of the procedure. However, many couples choose vasectomy over tubal ligation since male sterilization is cheaper and less complicated. Tubal ligation is also believed to be more risky than vasectomy. Hence, many couples opt for the safer alternative.

Although they do not immediately jump to the conclusion that vasectomy is not as efficient as the doctors are claiming it to be, some are still perplexed as to why pregnancy is still possible even after the vas deferens has already been cut. It is indeed frustrating for a couple to be told to still use another form of birth control even after the male has already subjected himself to the sterilization process.

It is true that the vasectomy risk of pregnancy is possible. However, the reason for this is not because the operation has been a failure. On the contrary, pregnancies occurring after vasectomy are due to the negligence of the patient.

Vasectomy Risk – Eliminating the Hazards

Vasectomy patients are required to submit samples of their semen regularly in order to check if sperm is present therein. Sperm sometimes remain in the ducts for long periods and it sometimes takes a while before all of them can be flushed out. Couples are usually advised to use other contraceptive methods until such time that the tests register three straight negative results.

The regular examination for sperm content in the semen doesn't only forestall the possibility of an unwanted pregnancy, but it also serves as a gauge if the surgery was successful or not. The testing or observation period usually lasts for eight weeks. There were cases, although rare, where the vasectomy has to be repeated since sperm still found their way to the semen.

Vasectomy Risk – Pain and Swelling

Although the biggest vasectomy risk involves pregnancy, the other hazards need immediate and careful attention just as well. There are times when the area where the incision was conducted becomes inflamed due to irritation or infection. If attended to immediately, these inconveniences can easily be treated and will eventually disappear in just a few days.

Due to the development of modern techniques, vasectomy has become one of the easiest surgical procedures that can be done outside the hospital. As long as the patient performs or observes every instruction that his doctor gives him, he can comfort himself with the thought that he will not be in danger from any vasectomy risk.