• October 16, 2020
  • Dr Luke Wee

Last updated on April 5, 2024

Everything you need to know about getting it up after getting the snip.

Getting the snip is often a procedure shrouded in mystery, misinformation, and myths. While there are important family factors to consider before signing up for a vasectomy, your ability to get it up shouldn’t be one of them. Here’s why.

Just a quick snip and seal – the basics of the vasectomy

A vasectomy is a relatively quick outpatient procedure (you’re in and out the same day) where the two tubes known as the vas deferens (or vas) are snipped, sealed and released back into the wild. Sealing these tubes stops sperm in their tracks and is an effective form of permanent contraception. Because they’re so easy and effective, vasectomies are relatively common in New Zealand – Kiwi blokes have one of the highest rates of vasectomy in the world.

Say goodbye to sperm, not your sex drive

Testosterone is key when it comes to libido and having a vasectomy doesn’t affect your ability to produce testosterone one little bit. Everything – from orgasms, erections and ejaculation through to sex drive – remains intact post-snip. While having a vasectomy does mean no more sperm being ejaculated, you’ll hardly notice. Only about 5% of seminal fluid will be lost.

Some studies have shown that without the risk of pregnancy or other contraceptive methods hanging over your head, you’ll be more relaxed and stimulated in the boudoir than ever before!

Let’s get physical – what causes impotence problems then?

So, now that’s cleared up, what does cause erectile issues?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence is, in a nutshell, when a man’s ability to get or keep an erection is compromised. The factors influencing this are:

  • Flowing to growing – sufficient circulation and adequate blood flow are required.
  • Mixed signals – an impaired nervous system can affect proper signalling to your member.
  • Hormone harmony – adequate testosterone levels are key.
  • Mind matters – psychological factors, like being in the right frame of mind, can affect your ability to perform.

Did you notice? Vasectomy doesn’t feature on the list. Getting snipped and sealed doesn’t impact on any of the physical attributes needed to get down to business, but what about the psychological side?

Finding it hard (or not)

From a medical perspective, having a vasectomy doesn’t equate to any performance woes but some men can experience an emotional reaction to getting the snip. This is hardly surprising given the fables surrounding vasectomies. While psychological side effects are relatively uncommon, being clear that a vasectomy won’t affect your sex life or masculinity can help.

Ok, but is there even a very slight chance a vasectomy can cause impotence?

Every surgical procedure has its potential complications. Infection or damage are very low-risk complications of getting the snip and it’s more likely that an underlying health condition is at play. It’s estimated that one in three Kiwi blokes above the age of 40 have problems getting and keeping an erection, so while it may feel like a big deal, it’s relatively common. You’re best to speak to a professional to get to the bottom of it.

Ready to close up shop? No worries.

With no medical links to impotence and a good understanding of the procedure, you can now go into it knowing you’ll be removing sperm from the equation, not your… capacity. Consider the myth of vasectomies impacting on your boudoir antics well and truly busted.

Safe and hassle-free birth control

If your family is complete and you’re looking for an effective method of birth control, The Cooper Clinic offers a no-scalpel vasectomy performed by expert clinicians. You’ll be treated to a safe and hassle-free experience with a 99.9% success rate in contraception. Best of all, you now know that your performance in the bedroom will stay intact. Talk to us today

Dr Luke Wee

About The Author

Dr Luke Wee

Meet Luke, our very own vasman. NZ men benefit from his hands-on experience in performing nearly 3,000 vasectomies! Luke has a special interest in men’s health and vasectomy procedures. He’s a Fellow of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners, a member of the Association of Surgeons in Primary Care and an international vasectomy peer group. Luke keeps his thumb on the pulse and consistently updates his skills and knowledge by attending national and international conferences.

Ask Us a Question

Have a query about vasectomies or family planning? Our dedicated team is here to help! Drop us a line with any questions or concerns you may have regarding the procedure, recovery, or any other aspect of vasectomy. We’re committed to providing informative and personalised answers to support your decision-making process.

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