When discussing reproductive health, it is equally important to include men’s health in the conversation. Accessible reproductive healthcare and services are foundational for ensuring that everyone is well-informed about their options and sexual choices, free from stigma and discrimination.
This advocacy is at the heart of the Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM)'s initiative for free vasectomies. While the procedure may sound intimidating due to the association with needles and surgery, it offers numerous benefits. A vasectomy can positively impact your relationship, alleviate the potential for financial constraints, and help you and your partner plan your future together.
What Is A Vasectomy?
According to Planned Parenthood, a vasectomy is a procedure that involves *blocking or cutting* the vas deferens, the tube that carries sperm and can lead to pregnancy.
Vasectomies can be performed using two methods: the incision method and the no-scalpel (no-cut) method. The no-scalpel method is often recommended by health professionals due to its lower risk of infection and other complications. Additionally, it typically requires less time for recovery!
While this may sound daunting, experts assure that a vasectomy does not affect your possibility to orgasm or your sex drive. The sensations will remain the same—a person who has had a vasectomy can still ejaculate and produce semen—but the semen doesn't contain viable sperm.
Compared to more invasive contraceptives such as birth control pills, implants, and injectables—most of which were created for use by women—vasectomy is recognized as the most cost-effective and safest permanent method for family planning, according to a report from USAID.
"Greater integration of vasectomy promotion and services is a first step in expanding the reproductive health paradigm to include men not just as default partners of female clients, but as equal beneficiaries of reproductive health programs," the report emphasized.
The Department of Health - CAR nurse Glenda Dacanay echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the responsibility of contraception should not rest solely on women. Rather, family planning should also involve men.
"Karamihan talaga ang burden ng paggamit ng contraceptive ay nasa kababaihan, karaniwan nakakaapekto po sya sa iba, nagko-complain ng headaches," Glenda said.
"Dito pumapasok ang role ng partners, boyfriend, or asawa to accept the role na maging hero naman sila sa kanilang pamilya by taking the responsibility na ma-involve sa pagpaplano ng pamilya nila and sa health ng kanilang partners by considering vasectomy," she explained.
GUIDE: Free Vasectomy In The Philippines
The Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) offers a no-scalpel vasectomy (NSV) procedure free of charge!
For more information, visit the Commission on Population and Development's official page and send them a message. If you’re from the National Capital Region (NCR), you may directly contact POPCOM NCR.
In addition to free vasectomies, they provide a wide range of reproductive health services, including access to birth control pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and contraceptive implants. They also perform bilateral tubal ligations for women who have already given birth, ensuring comprehensive options for family planning. And if you happen to just have queries and concerns, they are the best avenue to address that!
If you’re not located in the National Capital Region (NCR), there’s no need to worry! You can still access these services through your respective POPCOM regional office. Check POPCOM’s official Facebook page, where they actively post updates and information about their services at the barangay level, to help you stay informed about available resources in your community.
Take advantage of these essential services today and empower yourself with the knowledge and tools for informed family planning!
