I really didn’t know if I wanted to share and write about this publicly. I’ve kept it fairly quiet for some time, but I decided to share the whole story with you.
Starting the process
Initially, I was going to review Maze as a place where I was going to have my hormones checked and the sort. But the truth of the matter is that I reached out to them because I wanted to get a vasectomy. This is something that I have been considering for quite a few years now, but I have been hesitant because it can be intimidating. Understandably so.
The reason I wanted a vasectomy in the first place is that I am older, my son is grown, and my wife and I have agreed that we will not have children at this stage in life. So, it is in our best interest to take precautions to prevent that from happening. I think that it is easier for a man to undergo this procedure compared to many birth control procedures available to women. So, here we are.
First contact and the amazing Shantel
The first time I called them up, the interaction felt a bit rushed. I have to admit, that left a little bit of a bad impression on me, but I realize that was probably just my nervousness and high expectations. Sometimes when we’re anxious, we want everything to go perfectly. But it’s important to remember it’s a busy environment and not everything can be tailored perfectly.
I called back a few weeks later once I felt ready to continue, and the second interaction was much gentler. I spoke with a woman named Shantel (I hope I remember that correctly), and her caring manner was key in my deciding to proceed further with this process. As I mentioned before, I was hesitant and needed a kind touch. We spent quite a bit of time going over everything, and I felt motivated to follow through to make her efforts worthwhile. I don’t know if Maze specifically needed my business, but Shantel was definitely the reason I kept moving forward instead of procrastinating.
Shantel was essential for me proceeding, 100%. Also, every interaction I’ve had since that first one has been unrushed and professional. I might have just caught them during a busy time the first call, it’s all good.
Insurance and payment
One important detail is that Maze doesn’t accept insurance. They will note your insurance information and attempt to bill if out-of-network services apply, but otherwise, the expenses are out of pocket. For me, the cost was fully out of pocket. The reason I chose these guys over an in-network doctor is that they offer a vasectomy using the no scalpel no needle method. This technique is reportedly better, safer, faster, and less painful. You can read more about it here. I found another doctor who uses this method but didn’t get the right feeling. Maze not only has a professional website but also Shantel, who made a big difference for me.
Appointments
Before arriving, you have to fill out extensive paperwork, and it’s important to complete it; otherwise, they won’t see you without it.
When I came in for my first appointment at 3 pm, I wasn’t taken back until about 3:20 pm because Dr. Werner was running behind. While I waited, he noticed me doing neck stretches and thought I might be upset. I explained I was just relaxing and stretching while I waited.
Dr. Werner gave positive vibes immediately. He took me to a private room and said, “Drop your pants and underwear.” For a moment, I was taken aback but then remembered this was a pre-vasectomy exam. As he examined me, he mentioned one side was slightly smaller than the other, which made me laugh because I had noticed that as well.
After the quick checkup, going over my medical history and details, we scheduled follow-up appointments. These included blood work, an EKG, a mental health evaluation, and several other assessments. They are quite thorough here.
Psych Eval
My next appointment was a video session with Paul Nelson, their counselor. He has a great personality and a very supportive approach to his work. I enjoyed talking with him. If they took my insurance, I’d consider seeing him regularly.
The following session included blood work, an EKG, and general health checks. That wasn’t enjoyable since I’m not a fan of needles. The day before, I had about seven vials taken, and Maze added four more. Still, the staff did a good job helping keep me calm.
Banking Sperm
Before the actual vasectomy, with several weeks to wait, I considered having a backup plan. I decided to bank some sperm just in case. Life changes, and circumstances can shift. It wasn’t very expensive and gave me peace of mind.
I made three trips for sperm banking. The first yielded four vials, with the next two trips producing two vials each, since I hadn’t abstained as much. They also required another blood test before sperm banking, which was separate from the pre-vasectomy work. Although I’m not a fan of needles, the technician was kind and professional.
The Vasectomy
The vasectomy itself was performed in a larger office up in Westchester, NY. Initially, the commute was a concern and almost a deal breaker, but Shantel kept me motivated. Honestly, the ride wasn’t bad at all. My partner drove me, and I took some prescribed medication beforehand to help me stay relaxed, though I felt normal when I arrived.
Describing the procedure itself, the anesthesia was not too bad. Dr. Werner compared it to getting hit with a rubber band, which made sense. I experienced about seven quick pinches, unpleasant but not unbearable. Honestly, sometimes blood draws have been more painful.
During the procedure, Dr. Werner asked if I wanted to watch. I declined to keep focused and avoid distraction. In hindsight, I think it might have been interesting for my writing, but at the moment, I just wanted it done. The procedure involved some snipping and cauterizing, and it was over fairly quickly. He mentioned about 20 minutes, though I was medicated, so time perception was a bit off.
He mentioned, “One down and one more to go,” as he worked.
After the procedure
Afterwards, I didn’t experience severe pain, more of a dull aching soreness, similar to getting hit in the groin with lingering discomfort. One week later, I still have some bruising, swelling, and a small wound that is slowly healing. The pain is manageable, and I ice the area several times a day.
I don’t have much experience with vasectomies in general, but based on this, I feel confident that Dr. Werner is skilled. He’s mentioned several times he’s very experienced, and I tend to agree so far. Of course, I can’t see exactly what was done, but I’m trusting the process and the expertise.
Yesenia’s Cafe
On a side note, there’s a small café at their office called Yesenia’s Cafe. The food was excellent. We ate there and even took some to go. It’s a nice perk for the location.
A quick side conversation
At some point during the process, I asked Dr. Werner about a topic my friends and I had been casually discussing around common male insecurities. He offered a straightforward and reassuring perspective based on his extensive experience. It was a good reminder that a lot of the anxieties men carry around these topics are often shaped more by cultural messaging than by reality. Interesting how that varies from culture to culture as well.
Back to life
They say you can return to normal life fairly quickly, but that depends on what “normal” means for you. For me, normal includes doing yoga, cardio, lifting weights, jujitsu, teaching Zumba, and more. Can I return to that quickly? No. It’s been about a week, and I’m still sore.
The area is still swollen and tender. It’s not unbearable but definitely sensitive, especially with movement. Internally, some tubes were cut and are healing, and I have a small open wound that hasn’t fully closed yet. I can’t imagine returning quickly to any activity where the area is rubbing or sweating. If your normal is desk work, you might return sooner.
Initially, I worried when I removed the gauze and saw the wound. I thought it would be nearly invisible, but since he was cutting and removing parts of tubes, a proper opening makes sense. For now, I’m subbing out my classes and avoiding training until it heals, then I’ll reassess when pain and swelling reduce. No rush.
The whole process was unusual, having your groin examined, cleaned, and operated on isn’t everyday stuff. But overall, it really wasn’t as bad as I anticipated.
I’m also considering testosterone replacement therapy with Maze, but I’m still weighing my options on that.
After about seven days, I’m still wearing a jock strap, icing, and taking care with the wound. Fortunately, the pain is manageable. If you’re considering a vasectomy and want a modern approach, consider contacting Dr. Werner. Their professionalism and skill made a scary experience much more manageable.
Thanks to the entire team and staff at Maze Men’s Health!
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