The decision to have a vasectomy requires careful consideration. After all, undergoing a vasectomy procedure changes your ability to procreate, and therefore, it isn’t something that should be done without much thought. But can a vasectomy alter anything else? Namely, can a vasectomy lower your testosterone levels? Once you have determined that you are okay with undergoing a vasectomy procedure, you also need to determine if it is going to impact your strength, muscle mass, and even your libido – all things that are directly affected by testosterone. In this article, we’ll explore the effects that a vasectomy can have on testosterone, and if it does, indeed, lower levels of this vital male hormone.
Does a Vasectomy Lower Testosterone?
What is a Vasectomy?
A vasectomy is a common surgical procedure that involves either cutting or clamping the vas deferens, which are the narrow tubes that connect the testicles to the urethra. Sperm originates in the testicles and during ejaculation, it flows into the urethra and mixes with semen via the vas deferens.
Because a vasectomy cuts or clamps these narrow muscular tubes, sperm cannot travel into the urethra and mix with semen. Though the testicles still create sperm, it does not mix with semen, and therefore, cannot fertilize an egg, resulting in pregnancy.
A vasectomy is considered a permanent form of birth control for men. While vasectomy reversal is possible, it doesn’t always work. Therefore, confirming that you are 100 percent positive that you do not want children is imperative before you decide to proceed with the procedure.
Will a Vasectomy Reduce Testosterone Levels?
If sperm is removed from your semen, you’re probably wondering if it will affect your testosterone (T) levels. While it has been determined that clamping or cutting the vas deferens and preventing sperm from exiting the body by way of ejaculation does not negatively affect hormone levels (lower T levels), it was rumored that because sperm is not being released from the body, testosterone levels could be depleted, creating a male version of menopause.
To find out if there was any validity to this rumor, researchers have conducted several studies. The results of these studies determined that no, a vasectomy does not reduce testosterone levels.
While numerous studies have confirmed that testosterone levels are not altered in any way by a vasectomy, it is important to note that testosterone levels do get lower as a result of the aging process. Therefore, it is normal for men to experience lower T levels post-vasectomy, but this is not the result of the procedure. Rather the lower T levels are the result of the normal aging process.
Does Vasectomy Pose Any Health Risks?
Several research studies measured male hormone levels both pre- and post-vasectomy – specifically testosterone levels. All of these studies concluded that there was no marked change in hormones following this procedure. Many studies have also been conducted to assess the short and long-term effects of vasectomy on other aspects of a man’s health, including:
- Prostate cancer
- Heart disease
- Autoimmune disease
- Sexual issues, such as loss of libido or impotence
All of the studies that examined the effect of vasectomy on these vital aspects of a man’s health have also concluded that the procedure does not increase the risk of any of the above-mentioned diseases, disorders, or issues.
Does a Vasectomy Alter Personality?
Now that you know that with the exception of preventing you from being able to conceive children, a vasectomy will not negatively impact your health, you might be wondering if it will impact you on an emotional level. Studies have also been conducted to determine if this procedure has an effect on a man’s personality. These studies have also determined that no, the procedure itself does not alter a man’s personality in any way.
That said, however, the realization that you will no longer be able to conceive children can be emotional on its own. As a result, it’s natural for men to experience some degree of sadness, depression, and even anger post-vasectomy. Those feelings, however, are not the result of the procedure itself, but rather, it is your emotional response to the outcome of the procedure.
Vasectomy: Does it Lower Testosterone Levels?
Numerous scientific research studies have confirmed that vasectomy does not lower testosterone levels, nor does it increase the risk of certain disorders, diseases, or issues. With that said, however, confirming that you are 100 percent positive about your decision to have the procedure done – specifically, confirming that you do not want to conceive children – is imperative before you decide to proceed.
Other Myths About Vasectomies
Vasectomy Affects Sexual Function
This is one of the most prevalent myths about men's health and vasectomies. While a vasectomy prevents sperm from being ejaculated, it does not affect the production of semen or the hormones responsible for sex drive. Men can continue to have erections and orgasms just as before.
Vasectomy is a Complicated and Risky Surgery
In reality, vasectomy is a simple and safe procedure, typically performed under local anesthesia in a doctor's office or urology clinic. Complications are rare, and the risk of serious side effects is minimal.
Vasectomy is Immediately Effective
After a vasectomy, it takes some time for remaining sperm to clear from the reproductive tract. Until this happens, it's still possible for a man to impregnate a partner. Typically, doctors recommend using another form of contraception until a semen analysis confirms there are no sperm present.
Vasectomy is Irreversible
While vasectomy reversal surgeries are available, they are not always successful, and the success rate decreases with time. However, before undergoing a vasectomy, men are often counseled about other options, such as sperm banking, if they might want to father children in the future.
Vasectomy Leads to Increased Risk of Prostate Cancer or Other Health Problems
Numerous studies have shown no association between vasectomy and an increased risk of prostate cancer or other serious health issues. It's considered a safe and effective form of permanent contraception.
Vasectomy Causes Significant Pain or Discomfort
While discomfort is possible during and after the procedure, it's typically mild and easily managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Complications such as chronic pain are rare.
Vasectomy Will Affect Masculinity or Virility
Some men worry that undergoing a vasectomy will somehow make them less masculine or reduce their virility. However, a vasectomy does not affect male hormones or sexual function, and many men report feeling more relaxed about their sex lives without the fear of unplanned pregnancy.
Learn more: Vasectomy Cost & Procedure
ADULT PEDIATRIC UROLOGY & UROGYNECOLOGY
The attentive, compassionate physicians, providers, and staff at Adult Pediatric Urology & Urogynecology are committed to providing innovative, quality patient care in our state-of-the-art facility.
From screening and prevention to treatment and recovery, our health professionals will be there for you. Our team of dedicated physicians has been serving residents of Nebraska, Iowa, and South Dakota for more than 25 years.
Vasectomy Omaha - Schedule a Consultation
Ready to schedule a consultation with one of our vasectomy doctors in Omaha? Click here to learn more about the procedure. Our billing department is ready and willing to help you clarify your plan so you know how much a vasectomy in Omaha costs at Adult & Pediatric Urology.
