5 Unhealthy Lifestyle Choices That Can Shorten Men's Lifespan
In today’s fast-paced world, many men often overlook their health, leading to a shorter life expectancy. Here, we explore five significant lifestyle choices that can drastically affect a man's longevity.
Surgical Procedures: A Controversial Route
Currently, there are three main types of male sterilization surgeries: vasectomy, vasal occlusion, and the non-blocking vas deferens contraception device. The latter two methods derive from traditional vasectomy techniques.
Surgeries often evoke a sense of fear due to the trauma and pain typically associated with them. However, the vasectomy procedure only takes about 20 minutes, requires no stitches, and boasts a recovery time of merely two days. The surprisingly small scars and minimal invasiveness of the surgery exceed many expectations.
Non-Blocking Vas Deferens Contraception Device
Recently gaining attention in the media, the non-blocking vas deferens contraception device employs a special nylon mesh placed within the vas deferens to intercept sperm and prevent fertilization. One of its key benefits is that it avoids potential complications like epididymal congestion syndrome, which can occur after traditional surgeries. This innovative method is currently undergoing phase three clinical trials.
Traditional Vasectomy
The traditional vasectomy involves severing the vas deferens, effectively blocking sperm transport and preventing pregnancy. The surgery is performed through a tiny incision in the scrotum, allowing the doctor to access and cut the vas deferens with minimal disruption.
Many men worry that cutting the vas deferens will eliminate or greatly reduce the volume of semen. However, the average ejaculation consists of about 2ml of fluid, with over 90% coming from the seminal vesicles and prostate. After a vasectomy, only about 10% that contains epididymal fluid and sperm is obstructed, meaning semen volume remains largely unaffected. In case of a desire for children later, vasovasostomy can be performed, with a reconnection rate exceeding 90%.
Downside: Some men may experience postoperative discomfort due to epididymal congestion.
Vasal Occlusion Technique
This method differs from a vasectomy in that it does not involve cutting the vas deferens. Instead, a specialized material, primarily coal tar, is injected into the vas deferens. This process stimulates scar tissue formation, leading to loss of function in the vas deferens.
Downside: The challenge with this method is controlling the amount of injected material, which can lead to excessive scarring and discomfort at the site of injection. Consequently, this technique has fallen out of favor with most clinical practitioners.
Conclusion
Understanding the implications of each sterilization method—and the healthy lifestyle choices we make—is crucial for men aiming to enhance their lifespan. Being informed and making positive changes can lead to not only a longer life but a better quality of life as well.