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Two studies seemed
to show that having a vasectomy increases a man's chances of
getting prostate cancer, but more recent studies show no
increased risk. When scientists compare two variables to see if
one causes the other, they should determine whether one factor
causes the other, or is just associated with it. They use two
study groups: men who have had vasectomies and those who have
not.
Couples who opt for tubal ligation do so for
a number of reasons, including:
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Convenience of coupling the
procedure with giving birth at a hospital
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Fear of side effects in the man
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Fear of surgery in the man
Couples who choose vasectomy are
motivated by, among other factors:
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The lower cost of vasectomy
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The simplicity of the surgical
procedure
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The lower mortality of vasectomy
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Fear of surgery in the woman
Men who have had vasectomies tend
to be more sexually active than those who have not had this
procedure; otherwise, they wouldn't need to have the vasectomy
done. Three recent studies show that increased sexual activity
is a risk factor for prostate cancer.
Those at increased risk include
men who have the earliest first sexual intercourse, the most
partners, the most marriages and the most frequent orgasms.
However, at present most doctors feel that sexual activity is
not a risk factor for prostate cancer. Men who have had
vasectomies are also less likely to use condoms because they
don't have to worry about pregnancy, so they are more likely to
pick up venereal diseases that may or may not be associated with
prostate cancer.
Tip! Your best chance of
success is to choose a micro surgeon with a lot of experience
specifically in vasectomy reversal surgery. One of the main
complications that, while not life threatening, can virtually
guarantee that your surgery will NOT be successful if your
vasectomy reversal doctor is not trained in the management of
it, is a vasoepididymostomy.
Doctors cut the
spermatic cord as it leaves the testicles to carry sperm to the
outside. Beyond the cut, two glands, the prostate and seminal
vesicles, attach to and supply most of the ejaculatory fluid. A
vasectomy does not change a man's hormone levels or the
appearance or amount of fluid in his ejaculate. One study shows
that you must be cautious after you have had a vasectomy.
Sometimes sperm hides in the tubes for months. The usual waiting
period is to check a man six weeks after he has had a vasectomy
to see if any sperm are still in his ejaculate. This study shows
that you have to wait six months to be checked to see if it is
safe to make love without causing a pregnancy.
Dr. Gabe Mirkin
has been a radio talk show host for 25 years and practicing
physician for more than 40 years; he is board certified in four
specialties, including sports medicine. Read or listen to
hundreds of his fitness and health reports at
http://www.DrMirkin.com |
