Deciding to have a vasectomy procedure
is a serious decision. Therefore, the option should be thoroughly
discussed and understood before it is serious considered as a birth
control option. Thoroughly conduct your research and put as much thought
as possible into the discussion prior to broaching the subject. Also,
make sure you choose the ideal time to address this issue. If you want
to discuss the option of a vasectomy procedure with your husband, here
is how to open up this discussion:
Step 1: Determine Your Motives
Think
about what the reasons are that you are contemplating discussing your
husband having a vasectomy. Consider how this will effect your
relationship. For example, be sure that you know that he does not want
to father any more children. If you do not know this, be prepared to
have this aspect as part of the discussion.
Step 2: Review All Options
Thoroughly
review all of your options. Think about all of the birth control
methods available and understand why none of them have worked
sufficiently for you. Make a list of all of the birth control methods
you have used and the outcomes. For example, perhaps birth control pills
caused unwanted side effects. Condoms may make sex less enjoyable.
Diaphragms and other birth control tools could be less than adequate,
particularly if using them resulted in an unplanned pregnancy.
Step 3: Understand the Vasectomy Outcome
The
results of a vasectomy could be different than you anticipated. While
not a completely and permanent birth control method, the chances that
your husband can impregnate a female will decrease substantially, even
after a reversal.
Step 4: Discuss Cost Concerns
Find
out what the vasectomy procedure will cost. Most health insurance does
not cover the cost of the procedure. Check with your local family
planning clinic to find out about costs and to get other information.
Also, reversal costs can be much higher than the actual vasectomy.
Step 5: Understand the Vasectomy
Find out from your
doctor or clinic what a vasectomy entails. Most vasectomies take place
in the general doctor's office and many family planning clinics also
offer the procedure. Find out about all of the potential risks and
issues. Be as informed as possible and know what will be required.
Step 6: Arrange for the Discussion
Choose
a quiet, relaxed atmosphere and time to have the discussion. Pick a
neutral place away from home with privacy. Take your notes with you.
Begin by confirming that you both don't want to have any or more
children. If there have been issues with birth control, address this.
Then, ask if he has ever thought of having a vasectomy. If at any time
he becomes agitated, conclude the conversation to perhaps have at
another time. He may need more time to digest and consider it.