Let me introduce myself. My name is Mark Sisson. I’m 63 years young. I live and work in Malibu, California. In a past life I was a professional marathoner and triathlete. Now my life goal is to help 100 million people get healthy. I started this blog in 2006 to empower people to take full responsibility for their own health and enjoyment of life by investigating, discussing, and critically rethinking everything we’ve assumed to be true about health and wellness...
For today’s edition of Dear Mark, we’ve got a quick two-parter. First, I discuss the pros and cons of ocular sunlight exposure in children (and adults). Should kids leave the house with a pair of wraparound goggles every single time, or are their prepubescent eyes safe without them? If too much sun exposure is bad, is none the best? Then, we cover the pros and cons of getting a vasectomy. Are there real health risks, like increased chances of cancer and/or heart disease? Will you lose functionality down there and experience a drop in testosterone?
Let’s go:
Dear Mark,
The linked WSJ article seems a tad overblown with respect to the risks the sun poses to kids eyes. Would love to get your take.
It’s very similar to the conventional wisdom on sun exposure for skin: less is better, all the way to zero. In my view, that simply can’t be optimal for humans.
I’ve got three girls. Should I be sending out into the world with sunglasses, always??
James
It depends.
While I’m definitely a fan of the sun and regular sun exposure, and I agree that the article is pretty alarmist, there are real issues with too much sun exposure to the eye:
Photokeratitis – Temporary inflammation of the cornea from excessive UV radiation. This is basically a corneal sunburn. Painful but reversible and doesn’t seem to cause any long term complications. Snow-farers know it as snow blindness because the highly reflective snow amplifies the UV. The Inuit even made snow goggles from caribou antlers, cutting slits that allowed just enough light to see without causing snow blindness.
Pterygium – Mostly cosmetic, a pterygium is a blemish along the conjunctiva (the thin layer lining the white of the eye) that can become irritated and inflamed. Evidence shows that UV exposure is a likely risk factor, with outdoor postal workers experiencing higher rates of the condition.
Cataract – The leading cause of blindness, cataracts form when proteins in the lens unravel, become entangled, and absorb pigment that then increasingly obscures the vision. Ocular UVB exposure is a risk factor for cataract formation, which is why French mountain guides – who are constantly outside during the day without much respite – have far more cataract formation and surgery than non-guides.
Overall I’m with you, James. Sunlight is a reality of the outside world and unavoidable if you’re outside; we are creatures of the outdoors. We’ve established that moderate amounts of sunlight are definitely good for our skin and our overall health, and it’s difficult to fathom that going outside for an hour or two without judiciously slapping a pair of Blue Blockers on immediately would place our eyesight in mortal danger. Too much? Sure, that’s true for most stimuli, let alone the light from a massive ball of cosmic energy illuminating. But a normal, sane amount? Given the ubiquity of sunlight in the natural environment and the fact that we’ve evolved in said environment, it seems implausible that any modicum of sunlight is dealing major damage to our eyes.
There may also be benefits to unfiltered ocular sun exposure. We often talk about the dangers of excessive light at night disrupting your sleep by inhibiting melatonin secretion. Well, the opposite happens when you get it during the day: it wakes you up and establishes (or maintains) a healthy, natural circadian rhythm. If you’re always avoiding full spectrum, truly bright daytime light, your rhythm will be off. And sure enough, people who get the most light during the morning and daytime begin producing melatonin earlier in the evening. There’s nothing better than full on sunlight to provide that.
Is there a time for sunglasses? Yes, just as a good UVA-and-UVB-blocking zinc oxide sunscreen can come in handy when you know you’re going to be out in the sun without shade for longer than you and your skin would prefer, a pair of sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB can help protect your eyes in the same situation. Doubly so if you’re in the snow, on a body of water, or at the beach where the power of UV is reflected and magnified; glasses are a good option to have in these situations. I wear ’em myself – just not all the time.
I would provide sunglasses for your girls, not force them. As the pediatric opthomologist in the article even mentions, it’s better to run around and play outside without sunglasses than sit inside and watch TV. Besides, your kids are probably eating nutrient-dense, antioxidant-rich food, and that’s protective of the eye against sunlight damage. A smart, sane position is to get some sunlight directly in your eyes each day. Not a huge amount. Don’t stare into the sun on purpose or anything silly like that. Just go outside without sunglasses on (but handy in case you need them), go about your business, and the light will come to you.
Mark,
My wife and I are done having kids, but we’re also done with condoms and birth control. Neither of us can stand either, so I’m thinking hard about getting a vasectomy. Is there anything I should know? Are there any dangers associated with the procedure and the aftermath? I want everything else to work as intended, ya know?
Thanks,
Tim
Good news, Tim. The evidence strongly suggests that your facilities will remain fully operational, your sex life will improve (or at least stay the same), and your testosterone levels will be unaffected. All they’re doing is capping the vas deferens – the tubes that deliver sperm during ejaculation. You can still ejaculate, and the “body” is none the wiser. You’re just “inactive.”
In one 2005 study of 64 men about to undergo vasectomy surgery, researchers analyzed their sexual function pre-op and 90 days post-op. 67% of the men improved their function after surgery, while 17% worsened and 16% remained constant. Another study found that roughly a third of men enjoyed improved sexual function after vasectomy, while nearly 50% remained unchanged. The results differ across other studies, but for the most part the vast majority of men enjoy improved or unchanged sexual function after getting a vasectomy. If you’re happy with your work now, you’ll be fine.
Vasectomy seems to increase sexual satisfaction among couples as well. Husbands who received vasectomies and wives who received husbands who received vasectomies both reported improved sex, with the women enjoying the biggest increases in satisfaction. 93% of the males and 97% of the females would “recommend and do vasectomy again,” such were the benefits.
Rats who get the snip have similar testosterone profiles as intact rats. Although no human data exists, the fact that erection function and sexual satisfaction usually either increase or stay the same in post-op men indicates that testosterone is unaffected.
Associations between vasectomies and various health risks have been proposed, however.
Cancer: Much the same story as heart disease. Suspicion has made way for exoneration. Testicular cancer? No connection.
You might have seen the reports of a new study showing a link with prostate cancer. That’s true, and the headlines are scary. But consider that men who’ve had a vasectomy are probably more frequent visitors to the urologist than intact men. They’ll be receiving more tests in general and there will be more opportunities to take prostate cancer tests. Even still, the increase in absolute risk potentially caused by vasectomy remains low.
Sex with a loved partner is very important for many people. And on a physiological level, it’s extremely healthy. If this vasectomy will help you have more and better and less stress-free sex with your wife, it’s absolutely worth the very slight potential increase in prostate cancer risk. Go for it.
Thanks for reading, all. Let’s hear what you have to say about all this in the comments!
Good highlight on the vasectomy question. Few people look at surgical procedures in a “primal” scope.
Amy F
3 years 9 months ago
just a PSA regarding vasectomies: make sure you go for your follow-up visit to confirm zero sperm. my husband did not and we had a bouncing baby girl! this was about 3 yrs post vasectomy and 4 months after i started primal. I had (have) PCOS and needed fertility treatments with my previous 3 children. The vasectomy failure rate is about 4%.
k-del
3 years 9 months ago
I second this. My husband went to his followups, during which his sperm count never went down. It turned out he had 2 vas deferens(s)!! :O
(not sure how to write the plural of that)
He had to have the procedure again, on the other tube. Poor guy. But things went to zero, and we have been “good to go” ever since. 😉
So yeah…. unless you are a gambling man, follow through all the way on this one. 🙂
Erin C
3 years 9 months ago
And just one more warning – even IF sperm counts are confirmed down to 0 at any and all of the follow-ups (3, 6 and 12 months are the usual), there is STILL a chance his body will try to mend things. We did the vasectomy plus fertility awareness method but one month he had gone for a while without clearing the pipes plus I ovulated late due to stress (both were interrelated) and CRAP! From my furious internet research, it seems to most commonly happen around the 3 year mark, especially if both parties are super-duper-primally healthy.
Sasha
3 years 9 months ago
OMG that is terrifying. My husband had one this winter, and if it repairs itself after three years, I’d be 40 and pregnant. And throwing myself off the Brooklyn Bridge. lol
Bev
3 years 9 months ago
I can’t wait for the men to discuss this. There is a small but intense fear in my heart that my boyfriend will lose his sexual functioning. They are cutting…down there! And we all know the statistics on medical mistakes, doctors being one of the main causes of death. Point me in the right direction to find good medical studies and information so I can avoid mass hysteria googling.
Sarah
3 years 9 months ago
My husband had a vasectomy a few months ago, and for whatever reason, the doctor invited me in to observe and I did – not wanting to be unsupportive, etc. While a bit intense to watch, as yes, those are your man’s testicles, and yes, that’s definitely a hole in them, it wasn’t that bad, and aside from some swelling, he experienced little discomfort. He’s also back to total “normal behavior” if you know what I mean 🙂 It’s always a good idea to find a urologist with a reputation in your area. Our pediatrician recommended this one to us,… Read more »
noodletoy
3 years 9 months ago
doctors are NOT “one of the main causes of death”. for heaven’s sake. google that to start calming the heck down.
my b/f had a vasectomy over 15 years ago, after his last child, and all the plumbing still works GREAT.
Bev
3 years 9 months ago
Unfortunately the leading causes of death in America are medical errors, infections from hospitals and side effects from prescription drugs. Combined, these three things establish doctors somewhere around the 2nd or 3rd leading cause of death in the U.S. Acknowledging of course that doctors are not purposely trying to kill you, and are themselves caught in the broken cycle of our terrible health care system….but statistically speaking…I’m going to err on the side of caution and go to the doctor as little as possible, since I enjoy living.
Nocona
3 years 9 months ago
I can’t imagine anyone doing something so drastic as cutting down there. I’d rather go without sex. Profalactic? Lubricant? Anything without mutilation.
KD
3 years 9 months ago
The main cause of death is being born
Bret
3 years 9 months ago
Well played.
Paleo Duderino
3 years 9 months ago
You could also look into methods of Natural Family Planning such as the Creighton Model System and Clear Blue fertility monitor. All-natural, no surgery, and very interesting.
Alan Guttmacher: “People who practice birth control are called parents.”
OnTheBayou
1 year 4 months ago
That’s supposed to be “the rythm method,” not “birth control.”
Diane
3 years 9 months ago
I’m blond and blue-eyed and live in Southern California. I do a lot of hiking outside. I have found that most of the year I don’t even need sunglasses to feel comfortable, and during the times of the year when I do need them, I usually only need them during the brightest part of the day or if I’m experiencing high altitude where the sun is more intense, snow, water, or walking on really light-colored pavement or rocks. I think getting full sun on your skin and in your eyes really does help you feel more alert and happy, too.
A doubly good article for me considering that my children spend a fair amount of time out in the sun of summer Seattle. What I’ve noted for myself at least is that even though I am pale-skinned and used to burn now that I am primal I tan instead of burn. I credit the change to the tri-fecta of vitamins A, D, and K2 from a daily regimen of fermented cod liver oil, hard, grass-fed cheese, and homemade kefir.
Interesting combination of vitamins there. I knew Vit D could help with sunburns but not the other 2. Might have to try and experiment a bit and see if that help my pale skin tan a bit.
From what I understand the tri-fecta helps with absorption of the three involved and prevents toxicity.
And as long as you are primarily grain free the trifecta helps in preventing cavities in my experience. Up until I went primal I would have a couple of cavities a year or show some signs of tooth decay. Since going primal and taking fermented cod liver oil in addition to some form of vitamin k2 (from kefir, hard cheese, high vitamin butter oil, or simply supplementation) I have yet to have a cavity.
I’m not much of a cheese connoisseur…not that I don’t like cheese. I do, but I know nothing about what qualifies as hard cheeses and such. What are some good healthy cheeses to start on that are mild flavored and pack a lot of benefits?
My typical cheese choices are sliced and shredded. lol
I consume grass fed kerrygold cheese. Costco here in Seattle just recently started carrying kerrygold dubliner cheese. Before finding it at Costco I bought it at Trader Joe’s.
Kefir is a great source of k2, since it is made from bacterial fermentation.
David
3 years 9 months ago
Wonder if there are any studies why some patients / couples have improved satisfaction? I’d argue (without any evidence at hand) that the improvement is all physiological rather than physical. If you as a couple had been using condoms or other prevention aids, and always worried about getting pregnant, thatn I think the mental relaxation from not have to think about this is where the increase satisfaction is coming from. Still a very valid improvement. As they say, 90 percent of sex in between the ears. But I wouldn’t suggest a man consider vasectomy for a physiological improvement.
oxide
3 years 9 months ago
Do you mean phychological?
oxide
3 years 9 months ago
Do you mean psychological?
David
3 years 9 months ago
I did, thanks for catching that… benefits are psychological. (think spell checker got me)
Sarah
3 years 9 months ago
Yup! Sex gets a lot better if you’re not mentally going “please no more kids, no more kids! This is how we got kids before!” in the background. Both my husband and I consider this one of our best decisions. Just don’t rush your recovery or you’ll end up back in bed. Other than that, no problems!
Shary
3 years 9 months ago
Many eye doctors recommend the use of sunglasses any time one is outside, dawn to dusk, year around. The theory is that sun contributes to ARMD and various other eye issues. I find this a bit doubtful with regard to casual sun exposure. To paraphrase an old axiom: If our eyes needed constant protection from the sun, we’d have all been born wearing sunglasses. On the other hand, if one is out in the bright sun all day long, it seems only sensible to protect the eyes as you would any other part of your body.
Nocona
3 years 9 months ago
I specialize in selling Blue Blocker sunglasses in my business. I wear them at night if I’m watching some TV. I don’t wear sunglasses the first half of the day, but slide some on for the second half. Many american indian fisherman went blind from always looking in the water. I like the balance of the article. Get some good sun exposure without sunglasses and then protect.
Curtis
3 years 9 months ago
I never wore sunglasses in my teens and 20’s. I don’t know why, other than (and this is stupid) I couldn’t afford the “in” styles and instead went with nothing. I have since worn sunglasses the last three years and my eye health isn’t what changed my mind. I started getting self conscience about lines, crow eyes, etc from squinting 12 hours a day. I still take them off when I’m gardening or doing other chores, but wear them on my daily walks, at the beach, driving, etc. When it’s in the early morning and late afternoon, I don’t wear… Read more »
pam
3 years 9 months ago
i recently went to a seminar by Meir Schneider/
(who was born legally blind & trained himself to “see” when he was 17 by Bates method,
now he drives with his naked eyes).
he is very much against sunglasses, esp. putting black glasses on a blind child. he attributed a significant part of gaining his vision to sunlight.
now i rarely wear sunglasses sunscreen.
(i wear a hat if i need protection)
Good information about the vasectomy. My wife and I were looking at this option down the road once we are done having kids. Was always a little antsy what effect this had on the body and hormonal levels.
David Mitchell
3 years 9 months ago
As to children and sunlight. My brothers and sisters and I, as well as our friends, ran around all day in the Summer and never wore sunglasses. At age 15 I was diagnosed with near-sightedness, and astigmatism in the left eye, but that had nothing to do with sunlight. My eyes have changed over the years, but I can see things far away clearly. I just need readers to, well, read. I would imagine that fair-skinned, blue- or green-eyed people would have the most problems with too much sunlight as their geno-types developed in the far north where it was… Read more »
David Mitchell
3 years 9 months ago
P.S. Regarding equatorial Africa. I remember seeing a documentary of men in West Africa who fished for sardines (no, not the little kind, the 1 to 2 foot long ones). They went out to sea in basically big canoes. They only wore a kind of loin cloth. Their skin was so black that it shined blue in the sun. They didn’t wear sunglasses.
Karl
3 years 9 months ago
“If this vasectomy will help you have…less stress-free sex…, it`s absolutely worth…”
This should read “less stressful” or “more stress-free,” right? Either that or
a) my grasp of the English language is way more tenuous than I thought.
b) I am totally misunderstanding the core concept of this whole “Primal” thing.
b2curious
3 years 9 months ago
Good catch! You are correct, that should read “less stressful” or “more stress-free.” I totally missed it.
Blake Russell
3 years 9 months ago
My wife and I try to work like a team, so I would love to know where the greater health risks lie between using the ring and getting a vasectomy.
Pdawg
3 years 9 months ago
Vasectomy is the way to go. My husband got his when our last child was 6 weeks old. I was finally able to stop taking the dreaded birth control pill and everything improved…..our sex, my moods (lack of mood swings). Nothing is fool proof, so there is always a chance I could get pregnant again but if your done having children why not?!? The only concern my husband had was that he couldn’t work out for a week or two per the doctor. I told him that if we had more children how often did he think he could work… Read more »
Aaron
3 years 9 months ago
I had a vasectomy five years ago. Best decision ever.
No change in drive, function or “end product.” Zero worry about pregnancy during sex.
Added benefit of three days of solid post-op sympathy including primal meals in bed.
jo
3 years 9 months ago
I have never liked sunglasses–makes everything so dark–and use them rarely. I generally wear a sun visor to shade my eyes.
Nocona
3 years 9 months ago
May I suggest Blue Blocker sunglasses. They brighten things up while relaxing the eyes. They create contrast and work well in shady, as well as sunny locations. Mark recommends them at night while watching TV too! They are very good for your eyes.
jo
3 years 9 months ago
Thanks for the suggestion. I have a pair that I bought for TV viewing at night. I guess I didn’t realize that I could use them during the day.
Lou
3 years 9 months ago
Just remember the two biggest myths of vasectomy: 1: This won’t hurt a bit 2: You’re gonna get sex every day! Basically, be realistic in your expectations, both during, and post-op. It may not hurt at all, and maybe your partner really is that … demanding and/or accomodating, but the real goal here is to eliminate the stress of playing testicular roullette and make spontaneity easy. And above all, when the doctor tells you to put ice on the boys for a couple days, if you value your sanity, USE ICE!! And stay ahead of the curve on that. I… Read more »
Caroline
3 years 9 months ago
Vasectomy has been great for us as a couple in the long term but at first it was extremely painful for my husband for longer than we expected. Talking to others, we are not the only ones to regret it at first. There can be psychological implications, not just because of the fertility issue but also because having a procedure on an intimate part of the body can bring up feelings of having been violated or emasculated. A friend of mine chose female sterilization instead, deciding that was best for them as a couple. We no longer regret it but… Read more »
Trish
3 years 9 months ago
My husband and I decided about three years into our marriage that we didn’t want kids. I went to an OB/GYN to see about getting my tubes tied. Actually I went to four. EVERY ONE of them wouldn’t do it because I was in my mid-thirties and hadn’t had children. The only one who even gave it consideration handed me a slew of forms to fill out that all basically said “you know it’d be a pain to reverse this, right? You know that, right? If you get divorced and find a new guy and decide you want kids with… Read more »
ValerieH
3 years 9 months ago
I had 2 c-sections. The 3rd child was a surprise but the first two were planned. I actually found an OB/Gyn that was going to let me VBAC (but he still kept talking about using pitocin). So I opted for the 3rd c-section and got the tubes tied. Before the birth, my husband an I constantly chanted to each other “free birth control!”. That was nine years ago and we’re still very happy with our 3 children.
Libby
3 years 9 months ago
I tried to get my tubes tied in my twenties when I had insurance that would have covered it – no one would do it. I’ve known since I was a kid that I didn’t want any. It was the most infuriating experience of my life, being told that I would “change my mind when I met someone.” I am now thirty, married to someone who has never wanted kids, and I still can’t get it done. Vasectomy it is.
meepster
3 years 9 months ago
Question about sun exposure: does it matter whether you’ve got blue eyes or brown eyes? I have blue eyes, and I’ve always been told that blue-eyed people should take more precautions around the sun than brown-eyed people. Is that true, or does it not matter?
My optometrist has advised me to wear sunglasses regularly during summer for this reason. According to him sun exposure tends to negatively impact the sight of people with paler eye colours more than those with darker eye colours (though that being said, my eyes are hazel and I still have this issue).
meepster
3 years 9 months ago
I guess that does make sense. I spent a day outside without sunglasses the other day, and I am definitely regretting it now. My eyes feel a bit inflamed. Not doing that again.
Do it and never look back. My vasectomy is the only thing I ever got my money back on thousands of times over!
Bryan
3 years 9 months ago
I’ve had zero complications from my vasectomy. …and I’ll echo the improved sex life and going for the follow up appt. Take the Dr’s advice and sit on a bag of for the remainder of the day and you shouldn’t have troubles.
Chad
3 years 9 months ago
There is an alternative to a vasectomy that is under development in the US that goes by the name Vasalgel. It is based on a polymer contraceptive called RISUG®, which is in advanced clinical trials in India. I’ve been following the progress for years and cannot wait for the this to come to market. From the Parsemus Foundation website – “Vasalgel is a long-acting, nonhormonal contraceptive similar to vasectomy but with one significant advantage: it is likely to be more reversible. The procedure is similar to a no-scalpel vasectomy, except a gel is injected into the vas deferens (the tube… Read more »
A Smith
3 years 9 months ago
I always say my husband getting a vasectomy was the nicest thing he ever did for us. So freeing to have that worry taken out of the bedroom and so nice for me to not have to take any drugs
Jack Lea Mason
3 years 9 months ago
Doe’s the surgeon wear sunglasses when performing a laser vasectomy?
Nocona
3 years 9 months ago
His future’s so bright, he’s gotta wear shades…
Linda
3 years 9 months ago
I’ve always had very light-sensitive eyes and squinting against bright sunlight for a long time tends to gives me headaches and make me very tired. It’s also very distracting. Sunglasses all the way for me.
I wear prescription glasses all the time for my terrible eyesight, and switching between regular and sunglasses frequently can be annoying at times (going in & out of shops for example), but it’s totally worth it. Also, squinting gives you crow’s feet 😉
Tin
3 years 9 months ago
I had a vasectomy in 1989. I was 32 at the time. It was one of the best decisions I made. My wife and I were done having kids and wanted no more. We are still together after all these years. The vasectomy caused zero decrease in libido. If anything, it went up since we were no longer worrying about birth control pills, sponges, foam, IUD, diaphragm, etc. I’ve gotta say how much I hated the diaphragm, bumping into that thing. Sponges and foam caused intense burning. And all of these birth control options have varying levels of failure percentages.… Read more »
Katherine
3 years 9 months ago
I’m glad you mentioned this because nobody else has, so far! It’s not that uncommon. My husband has occasional bouts of pain. Overall, the vasectomy (20 years ago) was great, but I don’t know if he’d do it again. People should google “testicular pain after vasectomy” or some such term to find more info. wikipedia has an entry (“post-vasectomy pain syndrome”). Don’t want to scare people, but somebody did ask and he deserves to get a full answer.
Cat
3 years 9 months ago
Based on personal experience, I’m skeptical about the eyes not needing solid sun protection. I’m 46 and in recent years have noticed this growth on the inside of both of my eyes. Turns out, I have Pterygium in both eyes. I’m dark haired, dark eyed and olive skinned. While I rarely bothered with sunscreen as a child/teen, I did wear sunglasses. I lived a fairly regular life (ie, I’m not a surfer or a fisherman or a skier who would have massive sun exposure), in the northern US, so I don’t know how I ended up with this damage. I… Read more »
High levels of Vitamin C are associated with low levels of cataract formation. In Europe they use l-carnosine in eye drops to prevent cross linkage of fibrils leading to cataracts. You can get these drops here also (“Visual Ocuity” is one brand) and the l-carnosine is listed under inactive ingredients. They are marketed as plain lubricating drops but they will give you the l-carnosine advantage.
Merky
3 years 9 months ago
for a primal website I am really surprised there isn’t more talk about natural alternatives. I am a woman in my mid-20’s and I have been using NFP with my (now fiancée) for a year. When used correctly, it is just as effective as the pill and no one has to undergo surgery…do your homework, it isn’t just “the rhythm” method anymore, it is a scientific system based on a woman’s temp and “symptoms”. Its really interesting to learn about the effect of BC not only on the woman using it, but the man she is with and potentially the… Read more »
winter
3 years 9 months ago
Merky I agree with NFP and the natural approach to contraception, and my husband and I currently use it very successfully (both when not trying and trying to get pregnant). However, we are still in our 20s and having kids, so it works perfectly for this season of life. I think once we’re done having kids it will be very nice to not have to worry about it – to be able to throw away the thermometer and the backup methods during fertile times, and just relax and know that we are in the clear. To me, birth control or… Read more »
2Rae
3 years 9 months ago
My 2 cents worth is about a friend of mine who wanted to have children after finding out that she could, even though she was on heavy meds (her doctor told her he would monitor her so that it wouldn’t be an issue). So they had her husband’s “V” reversed. It all worked out fine and after having a lovely daughter and thinking it might be nice to have another they didn’t seem to be able to have any more and then, surprise, several years after giving up came their 2nd daughter. As far as sunglasses go I wear them… Read more »
Mike
3 years 9 months ago
I’m surprised you didn’t mention the importance of age in the vasectomy decision calculation. If you and your wife are in your 30’s and want to call it quits, getting snipped seems like a reasonable option, but if you are in your mid 40’s or later, vasectomy is a waste of $$. The chances of conceiving plummet between 40 to 45 for women, and if you both can count to 10 and pay attention (I’m talking to the guys especially) you have a pretty good chance of knowing which couple of days during the month to get a little extra… Read more »
Nannsi
3 years 9 months ago
Tell that to my aunt, who had twins at 54 years old. Auntie had periods until she was 6 months along. Rhythm failed her. Or to my co-worker, whose little boy made his debut when she was 47 and in complete early menopause, as the doctors said. You’re good to go, they assured her. So she did. Oops!
And really! How does one establish monthly rhythm without cycling? Nope. Sorry. “Plummet” does not equal “goes to zero.” A vasectomy is well worth the time and trouble.
Sandy
3 years 9 months ago
I’m a 58 year old green eyed, easily tanned woman who grew up in Florida, and spent many hours outside in full sunlight. I never wore sunglasses as a child and I developed cataracts at age 48. Don’t take chances with your children’s eyes or your own eyes. It’s a real risk with real consequences.
Nannsi
3 years 9 months ago
Re: vasectomy: compared to tubal ligation, it’s the less invasive operation. So when it was time at our house, that was the rationale (along with “I had the babies, YOU get the vasectomy.”) Ice worked well. And, apart from the occasional 3-year-old flinging herself onto Daddy’s lap, it was pretty much pain free. And neither of us regret it. I wear sunglasses when the sun is bright enough to bother me. So mid-morning to mid afternoon, the shades are on or I’m in the shade. The rest of the time I try to get by without them…natural light at natural… Read more »
Mike Byron
3 years 9 months ago
I have to add – I had a serious Pterygium when exposed to sunlight too much. I was on drops and considering surgery (but knowing it would grow back). It actually was bad enough to cause pain. My sunglasses helped, but going primal eliminated the issue. I now get just as much if not more sunlight and the Pterygium has never reoccurred.
sara
3 years 9 months ago
I think a vasectomy is the best option for birth control if you’re done having kids! There are less risks than other forms of bc (hormones, etc). And over the long run it’s much cheaper! I am so happy that my husband got one! I know TWO people who have recently gotten pregnant using NFP (ovulation can come earlier or later than expected so you have to be diligent about charting/looking at ALL the signs mentioned in the book). I think the book is a great read, but not worth the stress/planning IMO. Plus sometimes you want don’t want to… Read more »
sara
3 years 9 months ago
Also, my husband went to “Dr. Snip” in Seattle… totally fast procedure, very little down time & pain. I think the process had been made much easier in the last couple of years with technology, etc.
First comment on this forum but just wanted to point out that vasectomies are not risk free. There is a fairly low (according to official medical literature) percent chance of 1-3% of long term pain (Post Vasectomy Pain Syndrome). I was unfortunately one of the unlucky few who this hit. Basically it’s a case where you can develop chronic blue balls from getting a vasectomy. My doc never informed me of this, low, chance even asking him point blank about ANY chance of having long term pain. Unfortunately my story is not an isolated rare case. What is seemingly rare… Read more »
Jack
3 years 9 months ago
Normally I don’t comment on things but I had a vasectomy 20 days ago. I talked to a ton of people and did a little research beforehand. I would be skeptical talking to dudes that have had this procedure years ago, things in medicine and so forth evolve rapidly. Now they have a procedure that does not use a scalpel and/or does not have any visible stitches. I worked the frozen vegetables for 3 solid days and sat around watching tv (extremely boring). Then I went back to work but still did not exert myself, and iced periodically after dinner.… Read more »
Jack
3 years 9 months ago
PS I never did tell my kids why I kept carrying around a bag of frozen peas for 3 days…I guess they’ll figure that out some day! Our 4/year old gave me the weirdest looks. Some day you’ll get it buddy.
Hearthrose
3 years 9 months ago
I was told by my eye doctor when I first got contacts that light-eyed people absorbed more light into the eye than dark-eyed people, and that people with contacts absorbed more light than those without. I live in SoCal, I have light eyes and wear contacts – so the only time I go sunglass free is when I am at the beach (swimming) and hanging laundry outside or other quick outdoor chores. My sunglasses live near my car keys, year ’round. While I truly enjoy the sun time that hanging laundry brings – I hadn’t particularly thought of it as… Read more »
healthywings
3 years 9 months ago
regarding vasectomy – my husband had this done more than 15 years ago – and it has been awesome. He is very healthy and sex life stayed just as great as it was before – however, I do think he got the surgery too soon. It was only a couple of months after our second child and a few years later I wanted a third child, and well, the choice was already made – and I did not want a 3rd child enough to try and reversal. anyhow, the surgery for him was very minimal out patient procedure – and… Read more »
kem
3 years 9 months ago
I had my vasectomy a few decades ago. I didn’t want to add to the mass of humanity. It worked a treat. No kids; cheaper than a school uniform. Thank you Mr Mark.
kem
3 years 9 months ago
Oh, I had snow blindness at about 15 years… didn’t know it could happen; hadn’t ever had a pair of sunglasses. Man did that hurt. I couldn’t decide whether it hurt more to have my eyes open or shut.
After three thirty five years of alpine guiding, I know when to wear them. I love to use my amber goggles skiing in bad light. Amber lenses are pretty good (mtn bike) riding in the forest. I hear they are pretty good for getting to sleep, as well.
MC
3 years 9 months ago
The sexual performance boost comes from carefree f–king and perhaps even sperm retention, both completely achievable without the vasectomy. I think the only benefit is having sex whenever you want without a condom, with no worries of pregnancy. But just in case anyone doesn’t just want to hear how great a vasectomy is, and know of potential problems, here’s a quote from Chris Kresser on how a a vasectomy can lead to potential problems: “That’s a great question actually, and I did a little bit of research on this and I guess what we can say is the jury’s not… Read more »
Peter
3 years 9 months ago
“with the women enjoying the biggest increases in satisfaction. 93% of the males and 97% of the females would “recommend and do vasectomy again,” such were the benefits.”
No suprise there… it’s not about the pleasure of having sex for the woman…it’s the relief at not having to nag her husband ever again!
Sun exposure is all about moderation. If you’re healthy, your body will make it obvious when you’ve had enough. No sun at all is bad news. Protection is a good thing once we’ve had our dose!
Good to know about the vasectomies! Some day…haha.
From what I have seen regarding eye sight (sorry I love puns!): Sunglasses should be used about as often as sunscreen – never if you can help it. Just as sunscreen blocks the BENEFITS of exposure to the full spectrum of sunlight (UV Rays), including the synthesis of vitamin D, sunglasses block the benefits to the eyes. Which are quite substantial. Among other things, lack of UV exposure (via sunlight @ safe hours) in children shows a vastly increased risk of developing eye troubles like myiopia/near sightedness. An affinity for shade, a wide-brimmed hat, protective clothing such as loose fitting,… Read more »
Steven Warren
3 years 9 months ago
Regarding the vasectomy, my personal experience is that my desire/function remained the same or actually increased (probably due to not worrying about more children…5 is enough!) but the intensity of my orgasms decreased dramatically. I did not think to research this side-effect prior, and it probably would not have altered my decision, but it is somethign to be aware of.
hockeyfan7
3 years 9 months ago
I had to have an ablation in 2006 so my husband had a vasectomy to make sure a pregnancy ever happened. I was 43 and we had no kids and I didn’t want any. A year later I wanted a baby so we adopted one. He did have some problems with the vasectomy because he didn’t ice it properly and developed a major hematoma. The really young ER doc came into the room and said “Dude, quit letting the boys swing in the breeze and go get a jock strap.” Funniest thing I’ve ever heard in the ER.
Keoni Galt
3 years 9 months ago
One point that needs to be considered with regards to sunglasses and sun exposure for your eyes – the balance of UVA and UVB they are getting. It’s no surprise that Postmen would get eye problems…they spend all day driving around in mail trucks and are primarily being exposed to sunlight THROUGH GLASS, which filters out UVB rays but allows UVA rays through. Then you have the snow and water folks who are exposed to long hours of UVA rays reflecting off the land/water scape. Remember that UVA and UVB exposure works in synergy for the human body to benefit… Read more »
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86 Comments on "Dear Mark: Sun Exposure and Eyesight; Vasectomies"
Good highlight on the vasectomy question. Few people look at surgical procedures in a “primal” scope.
just a PSA regarding vasectomies: make sure you go for your follow-up visit to confirm zero sperm. my husband did not and we had a bouncing baby girl! this was about 3 yrs post vasectomy and 4 months after i started primal. I had (have) PCOS and needed fertility treatments with my previous 3 children. The vasectomy failure rate is about 4%.
I second this. My husband went to his followups, during which his sperm count never went down. It turned out he had 2 vas deferens(s)!! :O
(not sure how to write the plural of that)
He had to have the procedure again, on the other tube. Poor guy. But things went to zero, and we have been “good to go” ever since. 😉
So yeah…. unless you are a gambling man, follow through all the way on this one. 🙂
And just one more warning – even IF sperm counts are confirmed down to 0 at any and all of the follow-ups (3, 6 and 12 months are the usual), there is STILL a chance his body will try to mend things. We did the vasectomy plus fertility awareness method but one month he had gone for a while without clearing the pipes plus I ovulated late due to stress (both were interrelated) and CRAP! From my furious internet research, it seems to most commonly happen around the 3 year mark, especially if both parties are super-duper-primally healthy.
OMG that is terrifying. My husband had one this winter, and if it repairs itself after three years, I’d be 40 and pregnant. And throwing myself off the Brooklyn Bridge. lol
I can’t wait for the men to discuss this. There is a small but intense fear in my heart that my boyfriend will lose his sexual functioning. They are cutting…down there! And we all know the statistics on medical mistakes, doctors being one of the main causes of death. Point me in the right direction to find good medical studies and information so I can avoid mass hysteria googling.
doctors are NOT “one of the main causes of death”. for heaven’s sake. google that to start calming the heck down.
my b/f had a vasectomy over 15 years ago, after his last child, and all the plumbing still works GREAT.
Unfortunately the leading causes of death in America are medical errors, infections from hospitals and side effects from prescription drugs. Combined, these three things establish doctors somewhere around the 2nd or 3rd leading cause of death in the U.S. Acknowledging of course that doctors are not purposely trying to kill you, and are themselves caught in the broken cycle of our terrible health care system….but statistically speaking…I’m going to err on the side of caution and go to the doctor as little as possible, since I enjoy living.
I can’t imagine anyone doing something so drastic as cutting down there. I’d rather go without sex. Profalactic? Lubricant? Anything without mutilation.
The main cause of death is being born
Well played.
You could also look into methods of Natural Family Planning such as the Creighton Model System and Clear Blue fertility monitor. All-natural, no surgery, and very interesting.
Alan Guttmacher: “People who practice birth control are called parents.”
That’s supposed to be “the rythm method,” not “birth control.”
I’m blond and blue-eyed and live in Southern California. I do a lot of hiking outside. I have found that most of the year I don’t even need sunglasses to feel comfortable, and during the times of the year when I do need them, I usually only need them during the brightest part of the day or if I’m experiencing high altitude where the sun is more intense, snow, water, or walking on really light-colored pavement or rocks. I think getting full sun on your skin and in your eyes really does help you feel more alert and happy, too.
A doubly good article for me considering that my children spend a fair amount of time out in the sun of summer Seattle. What I’ve noted for myself at least is that even though I am pale-skinned and used to burn now that I am primal I tan instead of burn. I credit the change to the tri-fecta of vitamins A, D, and K2 from a daily regimen of fermented cod liver oil, hard, grass-fed cheese, and homemade kefir.
Interesting combination of vitamins there. I knew Vit D could help with sunburns but not the other 2. Might have to try and experiment a bit and see if that help my pale skin tan a bit.
From what I understand the tri-fecta helps with absorption of the three involved and prevents toxicity.
And as long as you are primarily grain free the trifecta helps in preventing cavities in my experience. Up until I went primal I would have a couple of cavities a year or show some signs of tooth decay. Since going primal and taking fermented cod liver oil in addition to some form of vitamin k2 (from kefir, hard cheese, high vitamin butter oil, or simply supplementation) I have yet to have a cavity.
I’m not much of a cheese connoisseur…not that I don’t like cheese. I do, but I know nothing about what qualifies as hard cheeses and such. What are some good healthy cheeses to start on that are mild flavored and pack a lot of benefits?
My typical cheese choices are sliced and shredded. lol
I consume grass fed kerrygold cheese. Costco here in Seattle just recently started carrying kerrygold dubliner cheese. Before finding it at Costco I bought it at Trader Joe’s.
Kefir is a great source of k2, since it is made from bacterial fermentation.
Wonder if there are any studies why some patients / couples have improved satisfaction? I’d argue (without any evidence at hand) that the improvement is all physiological rather than physical. If you as a couple had been using condoms or other prevention aids, and always worried about getting pregnant, thatn I think the mental relaxation from not have to think about this is where the increase satisfaction is coming from. Still a very valid improvement. As they say, 90 percent of sex in between the ears. But I wouldn’t suggest a man consider vasectomy for a physiological improvement.
Do you mean phychological?
Do you mean psychological?
I did, thanks for catching that… benefits are psychological. (think spell checker got me)
Yup! Sex gets a lot better if you’re not mentally going “please no more kids, no more kids! This is how we got kids before!” in the background. Both my husband and I consider this one of our best decisions. Just don’t rush your recovery or you’ll end up back in bed. Other than that, no problems!
Many eye doctors recommend the use of sunglasses any time one is outside, dawn to dusk, year around. The theory is that sun contributes to ARMD and various other eye issues. I find this a bit doubtful with regard to casual sun exposure. To paraphrase an old axiom: If our eyes needed constant protection from the sun, we’d have all been born wearing sunglasses. On the other hand, if one is out in the bright sun all day long, it seems only sensible to protect the eyes as you would any other part of your body.
I specialize in selling Blue Blocker sunglasses in my business. I wear them at night if I’m watching some TV. I don’t wear sunglasses the first half of the day, but slide some on for the second half. Many american indian fisherman went blind from always looking in the water. I like the balance of the article. Get some good sun exposure without sunglasses and then protect.
i recently went to a seminar by Meir Schneider/
(who was born legally blind & trained himself to “see” when he was 17 by Bates method,
now he drives with his naked eyes).
he is very much against sunglasses, esp. putting black glasses on a blind child. he attributed a significant part of gaining his vision to sunlight.
now i rarely wear sunglasses sunscreen.
(i wear a hat if i need protection)
cheers,
Good information about the vasectomy. My wife and I were looking at this option down the road once we are done having kids. Was always a little antsy what effect this had on the body and hormonal levels.
P.S. Regarding equatorial Africa. I remember seeing a documentary of men in West Africa who fished for sardines (no, not the little kind, the 1 to 2 foot long ones). They went out to sea in basically big canoes. They only wore a kind of loin cloth. Their skin was so black that it shined blue in the sun. They didn’t wear sunglasses.
“If this vasectomy will help you have…less stress-free sex…, it`s absolutely worth…”
This should read “less stressful” or “more stress-free,” right? Either that or
a) my grasp of the English language is way more tenuous than I thought.
b) I am totally misunderstanding the core concept of this whole “Primal” thing.
Good catch! You are correct, that should read “less stressful” or “more stress-free.” I totally missed it.
My wife and I try to work like a team, so I would love to know where the greater health risks lie between using the ring and getting a vasectomy.
I had a vasectomy five years ago. Best decision ever.
No change in drive, function or “end product.” Zero worry about pregnancy during sex.
Added benefit of three days of solid post-op sympathy including primal meals in bed.
I have never liked sunglasses–makes everything so dark–and use them rarely. I generally wear a sun visor to shade my eyes.
May I suggest Blue Blocker sunglasses. They brighten things up while relaxing the eyes. They create contrast and work well in shady, as well as sunny locations. Mark recommends them at night while watching TV too! They are very good for your eyes.
Thanks for the suggestion. I have a pair that I bought for TV viewing at night. I guess I didn’t realize that I could use them during the day.
I had 2 c-sections. The 3rd child was a surprise but the first two were planned. I actually found an OB/Gyn that was going to let me VBAC (but he still kept talking about using pitocin). So I opted for the 3rd c-section and got the tubes tied. Before the birth, my husband an I constantly chanted to each other “free birth control!”. That was nine years ago and we’re still very happy with our 3 children.
I tried to get my tubes tied in my twenties when I had insurance that would have covered it – no one would do it. I’ve known since I was a kid that I didn’t want any. It was the most infuriating experience of my life, being told that I would “change my mind when I met someone.” I am now thirty, married to someone who has never wanted kids, and I still can’t get it done. Vasectomy it is.
Question about sun exposure: does it matter whether you’ve got blue eyes or brown eyes? I have blue eyes, and I’ve always been told that blue-eyed people should take more precautions around the sun than brown-eyed people. Is that true, or does it not matter?
My optometrist has advised me to wear sunglasses regularly during summer for this reason. According to him sun exposure tends to negatively impact the sight of people with paler eye colours more than those with darker eye colours (though that being said, my eyes are hazel and I still have this issue).
I guess that does make sense. I spent a day outside without sunglasses the other day, and I am definitely regretting it now. My eyes feel a bit inflamed. Not doing that again.
Do it and never look back. My vasectomy is the only thing I ever got my money back on thousands of times over!
I’ve had zero complications from my vasectomy. …and I’ll echo the improved sex life and going for the follow up appt. Take the Dr’s advice and sit on a bag of for the remainder of the day and you shouldn’t have troubles.
I always say my husband getting a vasectomy was the nicest thing he ever did for us. So freeing to have that worry taken out of the bedroom and so nice for me to not have to take any drugs
Doe’s the surgeon wear sunglasses when performing a laser vasectomy?
His future’s so bright, he’s gotta wear shades…
I’ve always had very light-sensitive eyes and squinting against bright sunlight for a long time tends to gives me headaches and make me very tired. It’s also very distracting. Sunglasses all the way for me.
I wear prescription glasses all the time for my terrible eyesight, and switching between regular and sunglasses frequently can be annoying at times (going in & out of shops for example), but it’s totally worth it. Also, squinting gives you crow’s feet 😉
I’m glad you mentioned this because nobody else has, so far! It’s not that uncommon. My husband has occasional bouts of pain. Overall, the vasectomy (20 years ago) was great, but I don’t know if he’d do it again. People should google “testicular pain after vasectomy” or some such term to find more info. wikipedia has an entry (“post-vasectomy pain syndrome”). Don’t want to scare people, but somebody did ask and he deserves to get a full answer.
High levels of Vitamin C are associated with low levels of cataract formation. In Europe they use l-carnosine in eye drops to prevent cross linkage of fibrils leading to cataracts. You can get these drops here also (“Visual Ocuity” is one brand) and the l-carnosine is listed under inactive ingredients. They are marketed as plain lubricating drops but they will give you the l-carnosine advantage.
Tell that to my aunt, who had twins at 54 years old. Auntie had periods until she was 6 months along. Rhythm failed her. Or to my co-worker, whose little boy made his debut when she was 47 and in complete early menopause, as the doctors said. You’re good to go, they assured her. So she did. Oops!
And really! How does one establish monthly rhythm without cycling? Nope. Sorry. “Plummet” does not equal “goes to zero.” A vasectomy is well worth the time and trouble.
I’m a 58 year old green eyed, easily tanned woman who grew up in Florida, and spent many hours outside in full sunlight. I never wore sunglasses as a child and I developed cataracts at age 48. Don’t take chances with your children’s eyes or your own eyes. It’s a real risk with real consequences.
I have to add – I had a serious Pterygium when exposed to sunlight too much. I was on drops and considering surgery (but knowing it would grow back). It actually was bad enough to cause pain. My sunglasses helped, but going primal eliminated the issue. I now get just as much if not more sunlight and the Pterygium has never reoccurred.
Also, my husband went to “Dr. Snip” in Seattle… totally fast procedure, very little down time & pain. I think the process had been made much easier in the last couple of years with technology, etc.
PS I never did tell my kids why I kept carrying around a bag of frozen peas for 3 days…I guess they’ll figure that out some day! Our 4/year old gave me the weirdest looks. Some day you’ll get it buddy.
I had my vasectomy a few decades ago. I didn’t want to add to the mass of humanity. It worked a treat. No kids; cheaper than a school uniform. Thank you Mr Mark.
Oh, I had snow blindness at about 15 years… didn’t know it could happen; hadn’t ever had a pair of sunglasses. Man did that hurt. I couldn’t decide whether it hurt more to have my eyes open or shut.
After three thirty five years of alpine guiding, I know when to wear them. I love to use my amber goggles skiing in bad light. Amber lenses are pretty good (mtn bike) riding in the forest. I hear they are pretty good for getting to sleep, as well.
“with the women enjoying the biggest increases in satisfaction. 93% of the males and 97% of the females would “recommend and do vasectomy again,” such were the benefits.”
No suprise there… it’s not about the pleasure of having sex for the woman…it’s the relief at not having to nag her husband ever again!
Ha ha
Sun exposure is all about moderation. If you’re healthy, your body will make it obvious when you’ve had enough. No sun at all is bad news. Protection is a good thing once we’ve had our dose!
Good to know about the vasectomies! Some day…haha.
Regarding the vasectomy, my personal experience is that my desire/function remained the same or actually increased (probably due to not worrying about more children…5 is enough!) but the intensity of my orgasms decreased dramatically. I did not think to research this side-effect prior, and it probably would not have altered my decision, but it is somethign to be aware of.
http://www.dontfixit.org
Still want a vasectomy?