Is vastectomy a safe and reversible procedure for contraception in men?

A promising new birth control method for men that’s more easily reversible than vasectomy has been developed in India. Called RISUG (Reversible Inhibition of Sperm under Guidance or Vasalgel in the U.S) the method is claimed to be 100 percent effective in trials, doesn’t contain controversial hormone therapy and it lasts a minimum of 10 years. Vasectomy is a permanent male contraception or sterilization.

What is Reversible Inhibition of Sperm under Guidance or RISUG?

The procedure involves injecting a non-toxic polymer above the scrotum, rather than making an incision as is done in vasectomies. The polymer then acts as a security system, coating the inside walls of the vas deferens which chemically incapacitates the sperms as they go past, making them unable to fertilize an egg. The results are similar to a traditional vasectomy but with added advantages of it being simple, pain-free and easily reversible. When a man is sterilized, the operation is called a vasectomy.  When you ejaculate (cum) the fluid or semen from your penis contains sperm.

What are the effects of getting a Vasectomy or Reversible Inhibition of Sperm under Guidance (RIGUG) ?

Sperm are made in your testicles (balls) and travel up your vas deferens (tubes) to mix with your semen. These are the tubes that are cut and tied when you have a vasectomy.

Infection is uncommon and is not usually serious. Internal bleeding may cause swelling and pain.

A painful lump may form in the scrotum where the operation was done. The pain usually disappears in a few weeks.

Are birth control methods in men safe?

A permanent form of birth control, vasectomy has been used for decades for male sterilization. The outpatient procedure is highly effective and has few side effects. Vasectomy is exceedingly safe. Vasectomy should be considered a permanent method of male sterilization and should not be performed if there is a chance that the patient might desire to father children in the future.