Whether you are in a committed relationship and have decided against having more kids, or you feel that fatherhood is not suited for you, you may be considering a vasectomy. A vasectomy is a surgical procedure in which the tubes that carry sperm are cut and stitched together to prevent sperm from being released during ejaculation. Vasectomies provide permanent results and are preferable in many ways to traditional forms of birth control. If you are on the fence about undergoing this procedure, the urologists from Mayer Clinic in Fairbanks, AK, can help.

Here, these experts list five reasons why you should get a vasectomy.

1. The Procedure Is Quick & Simple

A vasectomy is a fairly straightforward procedure—the surgeon will open the scrotum and cut and stitch the vas deferens together. The procedure takes less than an hour and can be completed in your doctor’s office under a local anesthetic.

2. Downtime Is Short

Just as the procedure is quick, the recovery time for this surgery is short as well. You will be asked to limit strenuous activity (including sex) for about one week to 10 days. Icing of the area is recommended in the days immediately following surgery to reduce pain and swelling.

3. There Are Few Side Effects or Complications

Vasectomies are over 99% effective and have a higher success rate than condoms or birth control pills. The risk of infection is lower than 3%, and less than 10% of men experience significant pain following the surgery.

4. Your Sex Life Will Substantially Improve

Many couples see a noticeable improvement in their sex life after this surgery. A vasectomy frees you from the worry of impregnating your partner and limits the need for condoms and other contraceptives. However, men who are sexually active with multiple partners are advised to continue to use condoms to avoid the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases.

5. The Procedure Is Reversible

If you decide you do want children after all, the procedure is reversible, and the reversal is successful up to 90% of the time. However, keep in mind that although your vasectomy is likely covered by insurance, the reversal may not be.

If you are interested in getting a vasectomy, call (907) 457-5050 to schedule a consultation at Mayer Clinic. In addition to urological services, this clinic also specializes in intestinal medicine and women’s health. For a full list of services, visit them online.