Dear Men,

 

We have written up Ten Reasons to support World Vasectomy Day and each one represents an important piece of a puzzle we’ve been constructing to transform our event into a global phenomenon. Our purpose is to do well by ourselves, our families and our future.

I personally believe in each ‘reason’ or else I wouldn’t have included them, but I also want to make sure that everyone and anyone who decides to get his vasectomy, either during WVD or any point in the future, does so because it is the right choice for you.

 

For one, as much as making a difference in the world matters, getting a vasectomy is something you should choose only if it’s right for you. There are some who might get swept up in the excitement of making history. I salute that passion, but we want to emphasize the importance of taking time to consider whether no longer having children is exactly what you want now and, for all intents and purposes, forever. Even if it’s your choice and ultimate decision, talking it through with trusted friends and family is smart. It’s all worthwhile asking others who have gotten a vasectomy.

 

Secondly, although there is the option of getting a reversal, let me be very clear; a reversal is more expensive than a vasectomy, it’s a much more complex procedure and most importantly, it’s not guaranteed to succeed. In other words, don’t get a vasectomy as a temporary form of birth control. It’s not.

 

Thirdly, we know that we live in a world where 18 is considered old enough to kill or die for our country and that as such, it’s  valid to ask, why shouldn’t a man at that same age have the right to choose not to have children? The simple answer might be, ‘two wrongs don’t make a right’. The truth is there are people who might actually know at age 18 they don’t want to have children and somehow can be certain that they’ll never change their minds. We can’t be the judge of that, but one thing you might want to consider, freeze some of your sperm!

 

Fourth, while getting a vasectomy may be exactly what a young person is certain he wants, it might not be what a physician feels comfortable doing. This decision is not necessarily a moral judgment by that physician, just a reflection on what he or she believes is in the best interest of that patient. In that same spirit, we’re not questioning any choice a doctor makes about who should or shouldn’t be allowed to get a vasectomy. That’s something each vasectomist must decide on his or her own.

 

Fifth, and very important, although the vast majority of men who get their vasectomies are satisfied with the procedure and most of their female partners are grateful to no longer have to worry about taking ultimate responsibility for family planning, there is a small percentage of men who regret having their vasectomy. This may be due to changes in their lives, their family, their sexual experiences, or complications, including long-term pain.

 

Serious complications occur in about 1-2% of cases, but if you suffer from pain, your pain is not a statistic, but a very serious issue, so please be aware. We share this information because it’s critical each patient is fully informed about the procedure and the full range of consequences. Furthermore, we believe that continued research is needed in this area and we fully support any and all efforts to do so.

 

Sixth, here’s another reality check, if you or your partner is non monogamous, you still should wear a condom. Sadly, a vasectomy does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases.

 

Seventh, and for many, most important, getting a vasectomy does not have an inverse effect on your capacity to give or get pleasure. In fact, eliminating fear of pregnancy might even improve your sex life! There are also people who say ‘it’s not virile to be sterilized’. I say it’s not very manly to have a child against your will or to not have the resources to take care of your children in a way that reflects what you value.

 

In summary, vasectomies may not be right for every one, but for those who are certain they don’t want more children and are equally certain they’re going to be sexually active with women who are still fertile, it’s the most secure option available. Regardless of whether you choose it this option, please take the time to consider it.

Remember, at the end of the day, vasectomy is about male choice so make the choice that’s right for you.

 

Sincerely,

Jonathan Stack