Vasectomy and Vasovasostomy - Male Contraception

Highlights	Surgery	Reversal Surgery
Introduction	Complications	Assisted Reproductive Technologies
Considerations	Unexpected Pregnancy	Resources
Male Contraception	Long-Term Complications	References

Male Contraception

As many as 40% of couples seeking vasectomy have experienced a failure with their previous method of nonpermanent birth control. Such failures can occur from misplacement of a diaphragm, an incorrectly implanted IUD, or noncompliance with an oral contraception regimen. Couples who are unsure about permanent sterility should still consider other methods and improving their use.

Withdrawal

Withdrawal before ejaculation is a form of natural contraception, but it is extremely risky and most people find it unsatisfactory. If used on a regular basis, the average risk for pregnancy is 24%.

Condoms

The only other form of male contraception currently available is the condom. However, the average rate of pregnancy for couples that rely only on condoms for protection is still 12%. And in adolescents the risk with condoms is even higher, 18%. Even for those who use a good-quality condom correctly, the annual risk for pregnancy is 3%. The condom should be put on before intercourse when the penis is erect, long before ejaculation, since the male can discharge sufficient semen to cause pregnancy before ejaculation occurs. (Even after a vasectomy, men who are not in a monogamous relationship with an HIV-negative partner should always wear a condom during sex for protection against sexually transmitted diseases. Vasectomy is not protective.)

Click the icon to see an illustrated series detailing how to apply a condom.

Condom Materials.

Latex. Condoms made of latex rubber are the most common types. When they are contoured for better fit and contain a spermicide they can provide fairly effective protection. Some people are allergic to latex, however, and in some cases the reaction can be very dangerous. The latex smell may also be unpleasant for some people.
Polyurethane. Polyurethane condoms (Avanti, eZ-on) are now available. It is hoped that eventually they will prove to be superior to latex in a number of ways, including strength, sensitivity, and durability. At this point, they have good acceptance by couples but have a higher breakage rate (6 - 7.2%) compared to the latex condom (1.1 - 2%). Other synthetic materials are under investigation.
Animal Membranes. Condoms made from animal membrane can prevent pregnancy, but sexually transmitted infections can permeate them.
Lubricants, Lubricants can be used to prevent tearing. Petroleum-based products (such as Vaseline and baby oil) and vegetable oils should not be used because they can corrode the condom.