Table of Contents
Anti-sperm Antibodies. Sperm continue to be produced after vasectomy but are disposed of in the body. In some men the immune system mistakes these sperm as foreign proteins (antigens) and produces anti-sperm antibodies that are designed to target and interfere with sperm's motility (ability to move). Up to two thirds of vasectomized men develop such anti-sperm antibodies. Infections in the genital tract, such as orchitis or sexually transmitted diseases, increase the risk for anti-sperm antibodies. The anti-sperm response itself appears to be a problem only if a man wishes to reverse the vasectomy.
Heart Disease and Other Changes. Some experts are concerned that changes in the immune system might cause damage in other parts of the body, including contributing to heart disease. Animal research has suggested that heart disease accelerates after vasectomy. However, a large 2002 follow-up study of men who had vasectomies found no increase in risk for heart disease, stroke, or peripheral artery disease, even after more than 20 years. Nor did researchers find any evidence of greater risk for hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) or inflammation, which play a role in cardiovascular disease.
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Osteoporosis
Some experts have voiced concern that vasectomy may increase the risk for the bone-thinning condition known as osteoporosis. However, evidence to date does not support an association.
Kidney Stones
Studies suggest that men younger than their mid-40s who have vasectomies have twice the risk for kidney stones as their peers who have not had vasectomies. The increased risk persists for up to 14 years after the operation. Kidney stones are not life threatening, but they can be extremely painful. Drinking plenty of fluids is the best way to prevent kidney stones.
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Click the icon to see an image of kidney stones. |
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Review Date: 10/20/2006
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, M.D., Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of
Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General
Hospital
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
