Vasectomy: a Long-Term Study of its Effects on Testicular Endocrine Function in Man

Abstract

Plasma testosterone, luteinizing hormone (L.H.) and follicle stimulating (F.S.H.) were measured before operation in 39 males, aged 26 to 53 years with 2 to 5 children, seeking vasectomy for contraceptive purposes. These measurements were repeated at 3 and 12 months after vasectomy. Levels of L.H. at 12 months were significantly higher than pre-vasectomy levels, suggesting some degree of decreased Leydig cell function. However, testosterone and F.S.H. levels were similar at the three sampling times. Continuing yearly measurements for at least 5 years are planned.The long-term effect of vasectomy on testicular function was studied in 39 patients. At 12 months, luteinizing hormone levels were significantly higher than preoperative levels (p .005), which suggests some diminution of Leydig cell function. However, testosterone and follicle stimulating hormone levels did not vary markedly from preoperative levels. A 5-year program of yearly measurements of these hormones is planned.