9 myths about the Bimek SLV
The media has been reporting diligently about our revolutionary contraceptive and we’re delighted about this – but have also noted that in the last couple of weeks some myths have taken shape and are now persistently popping up everywhere.
We can’t very well leave false information about our product unchallenged. So here are the 9 most common myths about the Bimek SLV, let’s take a look at what’s true and what’s not.
#1 The Bimek SLV can cause a semen build up.
False. When the valve is closed, the sperm cells are ejected out of the ducts through three outlets. Outside of the spermatic duct sperm cells are recognised as foreign bodies and are then broken down by phagocytes, preventing the possibility of a semen build up. For comparison – in a vasectomy the testicular end of the spermatic duct is sealed. This leads to a build up of sperm cells, which can cause lasting tissue damage all the way to the epididymis.
#2 If the Bimek SLV is kept closed for several years the quality and quantity of sperm cells decreases.
False. Even in the valve’s closed state the natural flow of sperm is maintained due to the valve’s outlets. Sperm cells don’t just “hang out” waiting to be used, they are in constant flow. The body is not signalled to produce less sperm cells, which is why the amount and quality remains the same.
#3 The Bimek SLV can be switched on (or closed) shortly before sex to prevent pregnancy.
False. The male body does not wait for an orgasm to begin sperm production and then shoot it at full speed from the testicles through the spermatic duct into the penis and out into the world. From the beginning of puberty the male body produces sperm cells 24/7. These cells are stored in the male reproductive system. Closing the valves does not mean that the sperm cells magically disappear, they are still in the system and the man is still fertile. He will remain fertile after closing the valves, until he has “gotten rid of” his supply of sperm cells – be it through about 30 ejaculations or within three to six months. Using the Bimek SLV therefore requires planning, it does not work instantly.
#4 The Bimek SLV can be opened accidentally or without consent.
False. First of all, the wearer needs to feel the SLV and position it correctly. This requires sensitivity and, above all, a relaxed scrotum. To open the SLV, you cannot simply flip the switch. In addition to the switch, there is also a locking pin that must be pressed to allow the switch to move – all of this requires dexterity and two hands. This means the Bimek SLV can’t be opened or closed by accident or during sports or intercourse. We’re also certain every man would notice if someone was fumbling around down there.
#5 The Bimek SLV causes a weaker erection.
False. An erection is caused by a combination of stimulation, neurotransmitters, blood circulation and muscular activity. In short, the body pumps blood into the penis, which causes an erection. This has nothing to do with the spermatic duct, where the Bimek SLV is attached, or the flow of seminal fluid.
#6 When the Bimek SLV is closed the wearer cannot ejaculate during orgasm.
False. Ejaculatory fluids have a surprisingly small percentage of sperm cells, about only 5 percent. For the most part ejaculatory fluid is seminal plasma, which consists of proteins, electrolytes, enzymes, hormones, pheromones and water. The Bimek SLV affects only the flow of the sperm cells, not the ejaculate. In short, you would need to place the ejaculate under a microscope to notice any difference.
#7 Over time the tissue of the spermatic ducts will scar and grow over the SLV, making it impossible to use the switch mechanism.
Very unlikely, highly false. Connective tissue has an amazing ability to heal. When damaged, it regenerates and scars. The scarring could be great or minimal depending on the degree of injury. The spermatic duct is living tissue, so it can heal after an injury. During the implantation of the SLV, special high-frequency scalpels are used to prevent traumatisation of the tissue and, thus, excessive scarring around the connectors of the spermatic duct and valve. Yes, the SLV will grow with the body over time, but not to the extent that the switch can no longer be used.
#8 It is impossible to tell whether the valve is open or closed.
False. The valve is always installed in the same direction, which is why it has an arrow in the direction of the sperm flow to ensure the correct implantation. Therefore, the logic is always the same – if the switch is pressed closed, you will feel a “barrier” to the upper body. If the switch is opened, the side to the upper body will lie flat. A simple, consistent logic every man will be able to internalise immediately.
Another tip: If you are able to flip the switch without pressing the security mechanism, the switch was open and is now closed. If you can’t flip the switch, the valve is closed and the security mechanism locked.
#9 A general anaesthetic is required for the implant surgery.
False. The implant surgery for the Bimek SLV is comparable to that of a vasectomy, which is performed under a local anaesthetic. The SLV requires a minimally invasive surgery that takes about 30 minutes. After the procedure, you can go home.
Photo: Flickr