Vasectomy - Testicular Issues
Hello doctor, I am considering getting a vasectomy, but I have a concern.
When I have an erection without ejaculation, I often feel that my testicles become heavy, which leads to lower back discomfort.
I intuitively think this is due to the excessive production of semen that hasn't been ejaculated.
Will this issue occur after a vasectomy, where the sperm cannot be ejaculated and my testicles feel heavy for a short period? I understand that if I ignore it, my body will eventually adjust and reabsorb it, but in the moment, it can be quite uncomfortable.
Please help clarify this for me.
Thank you.
Yangyang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/13
Dr. Sun Hongshun reply Urology
Hello: The concerns you mentioned cannot be ruled out.
The discomfort from not ejaculating could indeed be related to a feeling of fullness or pain in the testicles.
Please consult a urologist for further evaluation.
Reply Date: 2016/09/13
More Info
Vasectomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting and sealing the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra. This procedure is intended to provide permanent contraception by preventing sperm from mixing with semen during ejaculation. While vasectomy is generally considered safe and effective, it can raise concerns about testicular pressure and discomfort, especially for individuals who experience discomfort related to unrelieved sexual arousal.
Your concern about feeling a sense of heaviness in the testicles after an erection without ejaculation is not uncommon. This sensation is often due to the buildup of sperm and seminal fluid in the reproductive tract. When the vas deferens is cut during a vasectomy, sperm will still be produced by the testicles, but it will no longer be able to travel through the vas deferens to be ejaculated. Instead, the sperm will eventually be reabsorbed by the body.
In the immediate aftermath of a vasectomy, some men report experiencing discomfort or a feeling of fullness in the testicles. This can be attributed to the fact that sperm production continues, but the normal pathway for ejaculation has been interrupted. However, over time, the body typically adjusts to this change. The discomfort usually diminishes as the body adapts, and the sperm is reabsorbed.
It is important to note that while some men may experience temporary discomfort or a sensation of heaviness after the procedure, this is generally not a long-term issue. Most men find that any discomfort subsides within a few weeks to a few months post-surgery. If discomfort persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any complications, such as infection or hematoma (a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels).
In terms of your specific question about whether the testicles will feel heavier after a vasectomy due to the inability to ejaculate sperm, the answer is that there may be a temporary sensation of fullness or heaviness. However, this sensation should gradually improve as your body adjusts to the changes. If you are particularly sensitive to the buildup of pressure and discomfort, discussing this with your surgeon before the procedure may provide additional reassurance and strategies for managing any discomfort.
In summary, while vasectomy can lead to temporary sensations of heaviness in the testicles due to the accumulation of sperm and seminal fluid, these sensations typically resolve over time as the body adapts. If discomfort persists, it is important to seek medical advice. Ultimately, the decision to undergo a vasectomy should be made after careful consideration of the benefits and potential side effects, and it is always best to discuss any concerns with a qualified healthcare provider who can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.
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