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Top Student Blogs: Are you #ManEnoughToSnip?

August 14, 2023

     By Duncan Green     

While most of you (at least in Northern hemisphere) are hopefully enjoying a summer break, or at least a lull, my poor LSE students are trying to finish their dissertations. Thought I’d throw them a bone by putting up some of the best of their blog/vlog assignments on the course I teach with Tom Kirk on ‘Advocacy, Campaigning and Grassroots Activism’. Each of them have to design a strategy for a campaign they would like to run, and then vlog/blog about it.

To get the ball rolling (dad joke, soz) Here’s Valerie Barki (valerie.barki15@gmail.com if you want to see her full campaign strategy and/or offer her a job) introducing her campaign.

If you’re anything like me, you may find yourself pondering the vast array of birth control options available. From pills to patches, condoms to intrauterine devices, the choices can be overwhelming. But amidst this sea of contraceptive possibilities, there’s one option that often gets overlooked: the vasectomy.

Welcome to the #ManEnoughtoSnip movement!

In a society where reproductive choices often fall disproportionately on women, and options grow increasingly limited with abortion bans reinstated in multiple states already, it’s time to break free from outdated stereotypes that somehow equate taking responsible steps to prevent unplanned pregnancy with being emasculated. Thanks a lot, toxic masculinity.

So, let’s dive into why vasectomies are actually a great birth control option:

1. Dispelling the Myths

Let’s start off with snipping some rumours in the bud (get it?). Contrary to popular belief, getting snipped doesn’t affect your manhood or libido. It’s a straightforward procedure that simply prevents sperm from reaching the semen. So, rest assured, your masculinity won’t take a hit. And even better, they can be reversed!

2. Quick and (mostly) Painless

“But won’t it be painful?” we hear you ask. Fear not, dear reader! Vasectomies are typically performed in about 20 minutes and under local anaesthesia, making the procedure speedy and virtually painless. You might experience some discomfort afterward, but it’s usually mild and easily managed with over-the-counter painkillers. And, recovery takes up to a week max. Seems like a small price to pay for long-term peace of mind if you ask me.

3. Kiss your pregnancy worries goodbye

One of the most significant advantages of vasectomy is its efficacy as a birth control method – it is up to 99.99% effective! Don’t believe me? Check out this Planned Parenthood article detailing just how protected from pregnancy you’re about to be. Say goodbye to all your accidental pregnancies worries. (I know, I was shocked when I found out too.)

4. The Cost Factor

“But isn’t it expensive?” you inquire. Not necessarily! Vasectomies are often covered by insurance, reducing or eliminating the financial burden. Considering the long-term savings on contraception, a vasectomy can be a cost-effective choice. However, one caveat is that the cost of reversals is unfortunately not as commonly covered by insurance. Read more about it here and make sure to consult with your insurance providers!

5. Breaking the Stigma

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the stigma associated with vasectomies. Society has often portrayed male sterilization as emasculating or a sign of weakness. But here’s another way to look at it: choosing vasectomy demonstrates responsibility, consideration for your partner’s well-being, and a commitment to shared family planning. It’s time to break free from outdated stereotypes and celebrate men who are #ManEnoughToSnip.

Not yet convinced?

Ok, you’re a tough nut to crack, we get it. This is an important decision. But hear this, did you know that Jay Cutler and George Clooney have both undergone vasectomies themselves. Don’t believe me? Check out this list of famous men who have done so and ask yourself once more what’s holding you back.  

At the end of the day, all we ask is this…

In a nutshell, vasectomies are a game-changing birth control choice for men. But here’s the deal: no matter what birth control option you opt for, we need everyone to step up, break the stigma, and ditch these outdated misconceptions about vasectomies.

That said, only one question remains: are you #ManEnoughToSnip?

*Find us on TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and visit our website to learn more about vasectomies and join our supportive community to help spread the word!

August 14, 2023
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Duncan Green
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