Sexual outcome of vasectomized patients: a systematic review

Introduction: Vasectomy is one of the most effective ways of contraception. However, it still has various complications, including post-vasectomy sexual dysfunction. Some studies suggest that one of the sexual performance problems can be linked to psychological factors. However, other studies indicate that vasectomy can have positive effects on patient’s sexual lives. Because of these conflicting findings, the purpose of this article is to examine the sexual outcome post-vasectomy using a systematic review of current studies.
Methods: We performed the search using electronic databases MEDLINE, Pub Med, and Science Direct. We used “vasectomy”, “vasectomies”, and “sexual outcome”, and “sexual quality” in the text keywords. Eleven studies, six case-control studies, and five cohorts met the inclusion criteria for this review.
Results: Studies reported a significant improvement in IIEF scores, sexual desire, sexual satisfaction, and orgasm domain after vasectomy. However, a study found that low acceptance of vasectomy can lead to erectile dysfunction, and vasectomized men are slightly more likely to report problems in maintaining their erections.
Conclusions: This systematic review shows that, although rare, there are complications after vasectomy. These complications can be related to decreased sexual function for patients after vasectomy. As a urologist, it is essential to offer adequate counseling to patients before vasectomy.