Despite being one of the safest and most reliable methods of male contraception, vasectomy continues to face resistance from many men due to stigma and widespread misinformation. Common misconceptions include claims that the procedure diminishes sexual desire or impairs a man’s ability to achieve or sustain an erection.
Dr. Akua Gyenimaa Mills Danso of Marie Stopes International, Ghana, has dismissed these notions, stressing that there is little evidence of any significant long-term side effects. Speaking in an interview with The Mirror in Accra last Wednesday, she described vasectomy as “very easy, simple and effective,” adding that it does not cause cancer or impotence, contrary to popular belief.
Vasectomy
A vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure for men that blocks or cuts the vas deferens — the tubes that carry sperm from the testes. This prevents sperm from mixing with semen during ejaculation, making pregnancy impossible. It is a type of birth control that prevents the penis from releasing sperm in fluid called semen during sex. During this minor surgery, a surgeon cuts and seals the tubes that carry sperm.
Sex after vasectomy
Dr Mills Danso emphasised that vasectomy does not diminish sexual desire, performance, or pleasure, assuring men that “you can enjoy sex just as before the procedure.” She explained that the operation typically takes about 30 minutes, during which doctors may provide pain relief or scrotal support to ease discomfort.
She noted that men are generally able to resume physical activities, including sexual intercourse, within the first week after the procedure. Highlighting its permanence, she advised that a vasectomy should only be considered by men who are certain they do not want children or have already completed their families.
Dr. Danso cautioned, however, that “a vasectomy does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It only prevents pregnancy, so condoms remain essential for protection against STIs.”
Post procedure
Dr Mills Danso explained that although healing speed could vary from person to person, recovery is quick because the incision is very small. “By the third day, you can visibly see that the wound is healing. During the follow-up visit for dressing, we also assess the wound and let the client know the state.”
She said doctors also advised that couples continue using condoms after the first three months post-procedure. “After that period, we ask you to do a semen analysis test so we can confirm that there are no active sperm in the semen. Once the results show that you are completely cleared, you can continue having sex without worrying about pregnancy,” she explained.
Fears
This reporter interviewed three men — all of whom requested anonymity — who expressed varied perspectives.
The first, a father of one in his mid-30s, admitted he briefly considered a vasectomy while exploring family planning options but later abandoned the idea. “I felt I might regret it if I changed my mind and wanted more children in the future. Since vasectomy is permanent, the uncertainty about my long-term plans made it a difficult decision,” he explained.
The second, a father of three in his early 40s, shared a contrasting view. “After three children, with my youngest now five years old, I could even accept castration. But as men, we have our sexual needs, so I wouldn’t mind undergoing a procedure that prevents pregnancy,” he remarked.
My only concern is that the procedure should not affect my sexual drive or potency.” The third man, in his 70s and with teenage grandchildren, said it was not an option he would ever consider, even in his 90s.
“Men are strong and we “never say die until the bones are rotten”, he said jokingly.
World Vasectomy Day
World Vasectomy Day is observed annually on the third Friday of November and this year’s event was marked yesterday, November 21. The global initiative encourages men to take an active role in family planning and raises awareness of vasectomy as a safe, simple and effective method of contraception. It also seeks to challenge long-held perceptions that contraception is solely a woman’s responsibility, promoting shared decision-making and responsibility in reproductive health.
Writer’s email: efiaamoakoa2@gmail.com
