Latest news with #vasectomy
Khaleej Times
08-07-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
'Will it make me less of a man?': Vasectomy in UAE remains a stigma, say doctors
Although vasectomy is widely regarded around the world as a simple, safe, and long-term method of birth control, it remains one of the most misunderstood procedures in the UAE. Misconceptions tied to masculinity, reversibility, and sexual function have kept interest low — even as more men are quietly discussing it in online spaces and behind closed doors. Take Karim (name withheld upon request), a 34-year-old Abu Dhabi resident who first explored the option in 2019. His inquiry at a local clinic was met with confusion. 'The receptionist told me, 'We don't do that here. It's illegal in the UAE,'' he recalled. 'But I knew it wasn't, I had already researched it online.' Determined, Karim continued searching until he found a private provider offering a non-scalpel vasectomy. The entire procedure took less than 30 minutes and caused minimal discomfort. Yet, what lingered wasn't the physical pain — it was the stigma. 'Even the doctor asked me if my wife (had) agreed. I had to assure him it wasn't a midlife crisis," he said. Karim explained that the decision was not impulsive — it was a deeply considered, mutual decision. 'My wife has a chronic medical condition that makes pregnancy risky. We both knew early on we didn't want to take that chance, and I didn't want her to go through years of hormonal birth control just because I was afraid of a simple procedure.' Low awareness Despite being proven as one of the most effective and affordable long-term contraception methods for men, vasectomy uptake in the Middle East remains limited. A 2021 study published in Urology Annals revealed that only 13 per cent of men in a Middle Eastern sample had even heard of the procedure. Just 0.4 per cent had undergone the procedure. Researchers pointed to religious beliefs, social pressure, and poor public health awareness as key barriers. 'There are massive misconceptions,' said Dr Hossam Zeitoun, a consultant urologist based in Abu Dhabi. 'The most common fears are about impotence, testosterone loss, or being less of a man. None of these are true, but they're deeply ingrained.' What a vasectomy really involves A vasectomy is a minor operation that involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens — the tubes that carry sperm — thereby preventing pregnancy. The non-scalpel version, widely used today, requires just a small puncture rather than stitches, with patients typically recovering within 48 hours. 'It has no impact on hormones or sexual performance,' Dr Zeitoun emphasised. 'Men will still produce semen; it simply won't contain sperm. But many still don't understand that." Financial and systemic barriers Beyond misinformation and misconceptions, a lack of financial and institutional support also discourages men from considering the procedure. While the procedure is legally allowed in the UAE, it is rarely covered by private health insurance. 'Costs typically range from Dh4,000 to Dh10,000,' said Dr Mohammed Arif, a Dubai-based urologist. 'It's considered an elective procedure, so most patients end up paying out of pocket.' Adding to the challenge is a lack of national education or public health campaigns promoting male sterilisation — unlike the global efforts around female contraceptives. A conversation still behind closed doors With little open dialogue in mainstream settings in the UAE, many men — especially expats — turn to anonymous platforms like Reddit or private Facebook groups to seek information or anonymously share personal experiences. 'Some patients come in already informed, others ask things like 'Will I lose my sex drive?' or 'Will people know?'' said Dr Arif. 'That shows you how private and misunderstood this still is.' Karim said that even now, he hasn't told most of his family or friends about the procedure. 'We didn't want kids, and that's our decision. But I don't want to spend time explaining that I'm not broken or selfish. It's just personal.'
Yahoo
01-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
What a urologist wants men to know about vasectomies
EDITOR'S NOTE: Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt is a urologist and robotic surgeon with Orlando Health and an assistant professor at the University of Central Florida's College of Medicine. As a urologist, I've performed countless vasectomies. They are my profession's bread and butter. When I'm not doing the procedure, I'm seeing men either alone or with their partners to discuss its safety, simplicity and effectiveness. Like many men, I've found myself contemplating whether it's time to get one, too. Maybe it's the recent US Supreme Court decisions on reproduction prompting more men to actively consider their role in birth control. Or perhaps it's part of a larger cultural shift toward shared family-planning responsibility. Then again, as a urologist who sees a growing number of men seeking vasectomy consultations, I'm more attuned to how common this conversation has become. An estimated 500,000 men in the US choose vasectomies as a form of contraception every year. And if you are like me and considering a vasectomy — or if you're just curious about this procedure as a form of birth control — here are the top things you should know. A vasectomy is typically a minor office-based procedure that requires minimal preparation. You can eat the day of the procedure, wear your T-shirt and shorts, and try to be relaxed. (If you choose to have the vasectomy done in an operating room, more preparation may be needed.) Once you're in the doctor's office, it takes 10 to 20 minutes to perform. After numbing the scrotal skin with a local anesthetic, the urologist makes a small opening in the skin, often so small that no stitches or scalpels are needed. From there, the doctor will find the vas deferens — the tube that carries sperm (made in the testicle) from a tightly coiled duct called the epididymis to the urethra prior to ejaculation. The vas deferens feels a bit like a piece of cooked spaghetti. The tube is brought out through the small opening, cut, sealed or blocked, preventing sperm from mixing with semen. The procedure is done on both sides, on both vas deferens, in a similar fashion. The cut ends are placed back into the scrotum, and the openings may be sealed with skin glue. Then you can go home and rest. Expect some soreness in the scrotum and surrounding areas. I advise patients to rest for one or two days, wear supportive underwear, and apply an ice pack to the scrotum for about 20 minutes every hour. For pain or discomfort, I suggest taking over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen if needed. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for about one to two weeks, or however long your doctor recommends. Post-vasectomy complications are rare but possible and include minor bruising, swelling and temporary discomfort around the area where the procedure was done. Though uncommon, infections can occur and are typically resolved quickly with antibiotics if caught early. Around 1% to 2% of men can experience chronic post-vasectomy pain, which usually improves over time but in rare cases may persist and require further treatment. An important point to remember is that you won't be sterile immediately. It typically takes several weeks — and around 30 ejaculations — to clear out your remaining sperm. Your urologist will confirm your sterility with a semen analysis, which can be done at a lab or using new at-home testing kits. Until you're officially cleared, though, continue to use another form of contraception — it takes only one sperm to achieve pregnancy, so making sure you are sterile is vital. I've heard all the myths about vasectomies, so I want to share the answers to some of the most common questions men ask me during our consultations. Many men worry that after a vasectomy they will have lower testosterone levels, sex drive or sexual function. Not true. In fact, many couples report increased sexual activity and satisfaction after a vasectomy since they no longer have to worry about pregnancy. You will still have an ejaculate — almost the same volume and sensation — but now you'll be 'shooting blanks,' since your semen no longer contains sperm. Despite what you've heard, March Madness isn't the only good time for a vasectomy. Many men choose to recover while binge-watching football or even their favorite show. The truth is, you can safely book the procedure whenever it fits your schedule. Some men assume vasectomies are expensive or not covered by insurance, but most insurance plans fully or partially cover the procedure. Even if you're paying out-of-pocket, the cost is often less than $1,000, though prices can range from $500 to $3,000 depending on your location and whether you opt for anesthesia. It's worth shopping around, but always choose a qualified urologist who is board-certified and experienced in performing vasectomies — your safety is never worth compromising just to save a few dollars. But let's face it: Compared with the monthly cost of diapers alone (about $100 per month until your child is potty-trained), a vasectomy is a financial win. Though it's less common, I'm seeing more men without children choosing to get a vasectomy. Why? Often it's a firm lifestyle decision, because of concerns over passing certain genetic conditions, or simply being absolutely sure that fatherhood is not in their future. During our consultation, we openly discuss the motivations for making this decision, and I review the pros and cons. One big con is the permanent nature of the procedure. Yes, vasectomy reversals exist — and I do them myself for patients — but I don't advise undergoing a vasectomy assuming it's temporary. Reversal procedures are expensive and not always successful. If you're not sure whether you want children, pause and seriously reconsider the decision. Ultimately, it remains your personal choice. Men who need birth control can use condoms or avoid sex altogether. There is also research on male birth-control pills, injections and 'switches,' which could be a long time away from being offered to men. For women, there are birth-control pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), implants, injections, patches, vaginal rings and tubal ligation. Each of these methods has its own pros, cons and effectiveness rates, so a detailed discussion with your health care provider and partner can help you make the best choice. Deciding on a vasectomy isn't easy. I should know, because I'm right there with you. My advice is don't rush it. Talk with your partner, ask your doctor all the questions you have during your consultation and think through what this means for your future. Whatever decision you make, though, make sure it feels right for you. Get inspired by a weekly roundup on living well, made simple. Sign up for CNN's Life, But Better newsletter for information and tools designed to improve your well-being.
CNN
01-06-2025
- Health
- CNN
What a urologist wants men to know about vasectomies
As a urologist, I've performed countless vasectomies. They are my profession's bread and butter. When I'm not doing the procedure, I'm seeing men either alone or with their partners to discuss its safety, simplicity and effectiveness. Like many men, I've found myself contemplating whether it's time to get one, too. Maybe it's the recent US Supreme Court decisions on reproduction prompting more men to actively consider their role in birth control. Or perhaps it's part of a larger cultural shift toward shared family-planning responsibility. Then again, as a urologist who sees a growing number of men seeking vasectomy consultations, I'm more attuned to how common this conversation has become. An estimated 500,000 men in the US choose vasectomies as a form of contraception every year. And if you are like me and considering a vasectomy — or if you're just curious about this procedure as a form of birth control — here are the top things you should know. A vasectomy is typically a minor office-based procedure that requires minimal preparation. You can eat the day of the procedure, wear your T-shirt and shorts, and try to be relaxed. (If you choose to have the vasectomy done in an operating room, more preparation may be needed.) Once you're in the doctor's office, it takes 10 to 20 minutes to perform. After numbing the scrotal skin with a local anesthetic, the urologist makes a small opening in the skin, often so small that no stitches or scalpels are needed. From there, the doctor will find the vas deferens — the tube that carries sperm (made in the testicle) from a tightly coiled duct called the epididymis to the urethra prior to ejaculation. The vas deferens feels a bit like a piece of cooked spaghetti. The tube is brought out through the small opening, cut, sealed or blocked, preventing sperm from mixing with semen. The procedure is done on both sides, on both vas deferens, in a similar fashion. The cut ends are placed back into the scrotum, and the openings may be sealed with skin glue. Then you can go home and rest. Expect some soreness in the scrotum and surrounding areas. I advise patients to rest for one or two days, wear supportive underwear, and apply an ice pack to the scrotum for about 20 minutes every hour. For pain or discomfort, I suggest taking over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen if needed. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for about one to two weeks, or however long your doctor recommends. Post-vasectomy complications are rare but possible and include minor bruising, swelling and temporary discomfort around the area where the procedure was done. Though uncommon, infections can occur and are typically resolved quickly with antibiotics if caught early. Around 1% to 2% of men can experience chronic post-vasectomy pain, which usually improves over time but in rare cases may persist and require further treatment. An important point to remember is that you won't be sterile immediately. It typically takes several weeks — and around 30 ejaculations — to clear out your remaining sperm. Your urologist will confirm your sterility with a semen analysis, which can be done at a lab or using new at-home testing kits. Until you're officially cleared, though, continue to use another form of contraception — it takes only one sperm to achieve pregnancy, so making sure you are sterile is vital. I've heard all the myths about vasectomies, so I want to share the answers to some of the most common questions men ask me during our consultations. Many men worry that after a vasectomy they will have lower testosterone levels, sex drive or sexual function. Not true. In fact, many couples report increased sexual activity and satisfaction after a vasectomy since they no longer have to worry about pregnancy. You will still have an ejaculate — almost the same volume and sensation — but now you'll be 'shooting blanks,' since your semen no longer contains sperm. Despite what you've heard, March Madness isn't the only good time for a vasectomy. Many men choose to recover while binge-watching football or even their favorite show. The truth is, you can safely book the procedure whenever it fits your schedule. Some men assume vasectomies are expensive or not covered by insurance, but most insurance plans fully or partially cover the procedure. Even if you're paying out-of-pocket, the cost is often less than $1,000, though prices can range from $500 to $3,000 depending on your location and whether you opt for anesthesia. It's worth shopping around, but always choose a qualified urologist who is board-certified and experienced in performing vasectomies — your safety is never worth compromising just to save a few dollars. But let's face it: Compared with the monthly cost of diapers alone (about $100 per month until your child is potty-trained), a vasectomy is a financial win. Though it's less common, I'm seeing more men without children choosing to get a vasectomy. Why? Often it's a firm lifestyle decision, because of concerns over passing certain genetic conditions, or simply being absolutely sure that fatherhood is not in their future. During our consultation, we openly discuss the motivations for making this decision, and I review the pros and cons. One big con is the permanent nature of the procedure. Yes, vasectomy reversals exist — and I do them myself for patients — but I don't advise undergoing a vasectomy assuming it's temporary. Reversal procedures are expensive and not always successful. If you're not sure whether you want children, pause and seriously reconsider the decision. Ultimately, it remains your personal choice. Men who need birth control can use condoms or avoid sex altogether. There is also research on male birth-control pills, injections and 'switches,' which could be a long time away from being offered to men. For women, there are birth-control pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), implants, injections, patches, vaginal rings and tubal ligation. Each of these methods has its own pros, cons and effectiveness rates, so a detailed discussion with your health care provider and partner can help you make the best choice. Deciding on a vasectomy isn't easy. I should know, because I'm right there with you. My advice is don't rush it. Talk with your partner, ask your doctor all the questions you have during your consultation and think through what this means for your future. Whatever decision you make, though, make sure it feels right for you. Get inspired by a weekly roundup on living well, made simple. Sign up for CNN's Life, But Better newsletter for information and tools designed to improve your well-being.
CNN
01-06-2025
- Health
- CNN
Thinking about a vasectomy? What you need to know before and after
EDITOR'S NOTE: Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt is a urologist and robotic surgeon with Orlando Health and an assistant professor at the University of Central Florida's College of Medicine. As a urologist, I've performed countless vasectomies. They are my profession's bread and butter. When I'm not doing the procedure, I'm seeing men either alone or with their partners to discuss its safety, simplicity and effectiveness. Like many men, I've found myself contemplating whether it's time to get one, too. Maybe it's the recent US Supreme Court decisions on reproduction prompting more men to actively consider their role in birth control. Or perhaps it's part of a larger cultural shift toward shared family-planning responsibility. Then again, as a urologist who sees a growing number of men seeking vasectomy consultations, I'm more attuned to how common this conversation has become. An estimated 500,000 men in the US choose vasectomies as a form of contraception every year. And if you are like me and considering a vasectomy — or if you're just curious about this procedure as a form of birth control — here are the top things you should know. A vasectomy is typically a minor office-based procedure that requires minimal preparation. You can eat the day of the procedure, wear your T-shirt and shorts, and try to be relaxed. (If you choose to have the vasectomy done in an operating room, more preparation may be needed.) Once you're in the doctor's office, it takes 10 to 20 minutes to perform. After numbing the scrotal skin with a local anesthetic, the urologist makes a small opening in the skin, often so small that no stitches or scalpels are needed. From there, the doctor will find the vas deferens — the tube that carries sperm (made in the testicle) from a tightly coiled duct called the epididymis to the urethra prior to ejaculation. The vas deferens feels a bit like a piece of cooked spaghetti. The tube is brought out through the small opening, cut, sealed or blocked, preventing sperm from mixing with semen. The procedure is done on both sides, on both vas deferens, in a similar fashion. The cut ends are placed back into the scrotum, and the openings may be sealed with skin glue. Then you can go home and rest. Expect some soreness in the scrotum and surrounding areas. I advise patients to rest for one or two days, wear supportive underwear, and apply an ice pack to the scrotum for about 20 minutes every hour. For pain or discomfort, I suggest taking over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen if needed. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for about one to two weeks, or however long your doctor recommends. Post-vasectomy complications are rare but possible and include minor bruising, swelling and temporary discomfort around the area where the procedure was done. Though uncommon, infections can occur and are typically resolved quickly with antibiotics if caught early. Around 1% to 2% of men can experience chronic post-vasectomy pain, which usually improves over time but in rare cases may persist and require further treatment. An important point to remember is that you won't be sterile immediately. It typically takes several weeks — and around 30 ejaculations — to clear out your remaining sperm. Your urologist will confirm your sterility with a semen analysis, which can be done at a lab or using new at-home testing kits. Until you're officially cleared, though, continue to use another form of contraception — it takes only one sperm to achieve pregnancy, so making sure you are sterile is vital. I've heard all the myths about vasectomies, so I want to share the answers to some of the most common questions men ask me during our consultations. Many men worry that after a vasectomy they will have lower testosterone levels, sex drive or sexual function. Not true. In fact, many couples report increased sexual activity and satisfaction after a vasectomy since they no longer have to worry about pregnancy. You will still have an ejaculate — almost the same volume and sensation — but now you'll be 'shooting blanks,' since your semen no longer contains sperm. Despite what you've heard, March Madness isn't the only good time for a vasectomy. Many men choose to recover while binge-watching football or even their favorite show. The truth is, you can safely book the procedure whenever it fits your schedule. Some men assume vasectomies are expensive or not covered by insurance, but most insurance plans fully or partially cover the procedure. Even if you're paying out-of-pocket, the cost is often less than $1,000, though prices can range from $500 to $3,000 depending on your location and whether you opt for anesthesia. It's worth shopping around, but always choose a qualified urologist who is board-certified and experienced in performing vasectomies — your safety is never worth compromising just to save a few dollars. But let's face it: Compared with the monthly cost of diapers alone (about $100 per month until your child is potty-trained), a vasectomy is a financial win. Though it's less common, I'm seeing more men without children choosing to get a vasectomy. Why? Often it's a firm lifestyle decision, because of concerns over passing certain genetic conditions, or simply being absolutely sure that fatherhood is not in their future. During our consultation, we openly discuss the motivations for making this decision, and I review the pros and cons. One big con is the permanent nature of the procedure. Yes, vasectomy reversals exist — and I do them myself for patients — but I don't advise undergoing a vasectomy assuming it's temporary. Reversal procedures are expensive and not always successful. If you're not sure whether you want children, pause and seriously reconsider the decision. Ultimately, it remains your personal choice. Men who need birth control can use condoms or avoid sex altogether. There is also research on male birth-control pills, injections and 'switches,' which could be a long time away from being offered to men. For women, there are birth-control pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), implants, injections, patches, vaginal rings and tubal ligation. Each of these methods has its own pros, cons and effectiveness rates, so a detailed discussion with your health care provider and partner can help you make the best choice. Deciding on a vasectomy isn't easy. I should know, because I'm right there with you. My advice is don't rush it. Talk with your partner, ask your doctor all the questions you have during your consultation and think through what this means for your future. Whatever decision you make, though, make sure it feels right for you. Get inspired by a weekly roundup on living well, made simple. Sign up for CNN's Life, But Better newsletter for information and tools designed to improve your well-being.
Daily Mail
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Frankie Bridge reveals why she doesn't ever want her husband Wayne to get a vasectomy
Frankie Bridge has revealed that she doesn't want her husband Wayne to ever get a vasectomy. The Saturdays singer, 36, has said that she wouldn't want the former footballer, 44, to get the procedure in case they don't end up together and he decides he wants kids with a future partner. The pair share children sons Parker, 11, and Carter, nine, while Wayne has son Jayden, 18, with his ex Vanessa Perroncel. And Frankie has now told The Sun: 'I'll be honest, I don't want him to have one. You just never know what's going to happen. 'Having a vasectomy is a door shut for me, it's also a door shut for him. You know, we might not end up together and he might want another baby. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new Showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. The Saturdays singer, 36, said she wouldn't want the ex footballer, 44, to get the procedure in case they don't end up together and he decides he wants kids with a future partner 'Or something might happen to me, and he might still want another child, because men can do it for as long as they want.' Frankie added that she decided a while ago she doesn't want a third child as she suffered with severe sickness (Hyperemesis gravidarum). She explained that after two kids she was ready to get her life and her body back and when the conversation about a third child came about the gap between her youngest and a new baby would be too big. Frankie and Wayne wed in 2014 at Woburn Abbey in Bedfordshire surrounded by their celebrity pals. It comes after earlier this month Frankie revealed that she has been suffering from an 'awful' illness that has left her 'completely wiped out' as she opened up about her secret health battle. The Loose Women star took to Instagram to open up to her 1.5million followers as she explained that she has been suffering from gastroenteritis. In the candid video, Frankie revealed that her 'immunity has been so bad' after suffering from gastroenteritis - an inflammation of the stomach - back-to-back. The singer, who was dressed beige T-shirt and tracksuit bottoms, said she has been having other 'tests done' and has also been on 'antibiotics for a bad tooth'. Speaking from her kitchen, Frankie shared: 'Hi guys it's been a little while and I've said a couple of time that I've been ill a lot lately so I thought I would give you an update. 'I've basically had gastroenteritis twice back to back. Which I very rarely get to be honest and it has completely wiped me out and been awful. I feel like my gut has massively suffered and it feels still really fragile.' According to the NHS, gastroenteritis is a common inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. It typically manifests with symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach cramps, but can also include fever, fatigue, and headache. Frankie continued: 'My immunity has been so bad and all while that has been going on I've been having tests done and I couldn't take my daily Symprove. 'On top of all of this I've been on antibiotics because I've had a bad tooth and I feel like I've noticed a massive difference in my immunity.' The Saturday's star concluded by telling fans she has since been 'given the all clear' by doctors. She added: 'I'm finally over it and I'm hoping it's the last time because I've been given the all clear to get back into my daily routine. I'm happy to be back and it's nice to be back in a routine.' Elsewhere, Frankie recently confessed some of her biggest regrets during her height of fame as part of The Saturdays girl band. She rose to fame alongside Rochelle Humes, Una Healy, Mollie King and Vanessa White in 2007. The band was formed after they were chosen from thousands of hopefuls on the television series S Club Search to appear as a support act for the pop band. But she told The Savoy Originals podcast that she 'didn't like' all the singles they produced during their height of success. She said: 'It wouldn't matter if you didn't like a single, that single was coming out whether you liked it or not. 'There's a few singles that don't exist in my head because I didn't like them, and you have to still go on TV and say, 'Buy this single, it's the greatest song ever, and perform it, whether you like it or not. 'And that's fine because some of them you like and some of them you don't.' The singer-turned-TV star also revealed she did not earn enough money to retire despite all the group's success. The mother of two previously explained she began to feel like 'two different people' during her time in the group and would have to switch on her public persona while out with the band. Speaking on Olivia Attwood 's S o Wrong, It's Right podcast, Frankie spoke about suffering from anxiety since she shot to stardom at a young age in S Club Juniors. Frankie said: 'I didn't go to school. We were home-schooled while we're on the road. I get really confused and lost in the time, I think I was like 15, 15 when S Club Juniors finished and then the Saturdays started when I was 17. 'So, it was a little gap and I had a couple of like normal jobs in between.' She said: 'I think pop music and TV and that kind of thing in the public eye, no matter how successful you are, the minute you stop doing it, everyone sees you as a failure. 'I always had stomach aches. Can you remember Pepto Bismol, the medicine, the pink horrible stuff? 'That would be in my bag every day because I always had a funny tummy, like nervous stomach. 'At bedtime I couldn't breathe properly and things like that. So I think the anxiety was there but I didn't know what it was.' She continued: 'I'd have blood tests all the time and things like that and obviously nothing ever came back and then it wasn't what it is now, do you know what I mean? 'But I for me, the first time I realized that it was a proper issue was actually in the Saturdays. 'And I think for a while I'd been coming home from work, going straight to bed, not wanting dinner, just wanting to go to bed, cry, go to sleep. 'Bed was a safe space. But I didn't realize that that was not okay. And it wasn't until we were on tour and we used to do meet and greets before the show and I remember gathering myself outside the door.
