Vasectomy

Vasectomy is a small procedure to cut the vas deferens. This is the tube that takes the sperms from the testicles (testes) to the penis. Sperms are made in the testes. Once the vas deferens is cut, sperm can no longer get into the semen that comes out (is ejaculated) during sex.

Vasectomy (the SNIP) is very reliable - but not quite 100%. Even after a successful operation about 1 in 2,000 men who have had a vasectomy will become fertile again at some point in the future. This is because, rarely, the two ends of the cut vas deferens re-unite over time.

Vasectomy FAQs

How is a vasectomy done?

Vasectomy (THE SNIP) is usually done under a local anesthetic. This means you are awake but have an injection into the skin so that you do not feel pain. Local anesthetic is injected into a small area of skin on either side of the scrotum above the testicles (testes). One small cut is then made to these numbed areas of skin. 

A tiny puncture hole is made in the skin on each side of the scrotum. The vas deferens can be seen quite easily under the cut skin. It can be cut with a surgical knife (scalpel) or using diathermy. Diathermy is electrical current that cuts and seals the ends of the tubes. It stops bleeding at the same time. Sometimes a small piece of the vas deferens is removed.

The hole is so small you will not need any stitches. The operation takes about 15 minutes.

There is usually some discomfort and bruising for a few days afterwards. This normally goes away quickly. The discomfort can be helped by wearing tight-fitting underpants day and night for a week or so after the operation. It is also best not to do heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for four weeks or so after the operation.

Are there any risks to the operation?

Most men have no problems after a vasectomy. Problems are uncommon but include the following:

  • As with any operation or cut to the skin, there is a small risk of a wound infection.
  • The bruising around the operation site is sometimes quite marked. However, it will go in a week or so.
  • Rarely, sperm may leak into the scrotum and form a swelling which may need treatment.
  • A small number of men have a dull ache in the scrotum for a few weeks or months after the operation. This usually settles within three months.
  • A small number of men develop a pain which does not settle over time. This can be mild or severe. It may be in the scrotum, the penis, the testicles (testes) or the lower tummy.
  • If you have a general anaesthetic, as with any operation, there is a small risk associated with the anaesthetic.

Does the operation hurt?

No more than any other minor operation that uses local anaesthetic. The injection of local anaesthetic may sting a bit for a few seconds. It is put in just a small area of skin. After this, the operation is usually painless. After the operation, when the local anaesthetic wears off, the top part of the scrotum is normally mildly sore for a few days.

How do I know it has been successful?

Some sperm survive in the upstream part of the vas deferens for several weeks after vasectomy. These can get into the semen for a while after the operation. About 12 weeks after the operation you will need to produce a semen test. This is looked at under the microscope to check for sperm.

If there are no sperm in this sample, you will be given the all clear. If not, you will need another test a month later. You will be told when the test shows the operation has been successful. Until this time you should continue using another method of contraception.

What are the advantages of vasectomy?

It is permanent and you don't have to think of contraception again. It is easier to do and more effective than female sterilisation.

What are the disadvantages of vasectomy?

It may take a few months before the semen is free from sperm. As it is permanent, some people regret having a vasectomy, especially if their circumstances change. Vasectomy does not protect you from sexually transmitted infections.

What if I change my mind?

Vasectomy is considered permanent. There is an reversal operation to re-unite the two cut ends of the vas deferens. It is a difficult operation and not always successful.

How soon after the operation can I have sex?

It is recommended to abstain from sex for between 2 to 7 days after the vasectomy. However, remember you will have to use other methods of contraception until your semen specimen has been confirmed as clear of sperm. Some sperm will survive upstream from the cut vas deferens for a few weeks.

Will it affect my sex drive?

No. The sex hormones made by the testicles (testes) - for example, testosterone - continue to be passed into the bloodstream as before. Also, vasectomy does not reduce the amount of semen when you come (ejaculate) during sex. Sperm only contribute a tiny amount to semen. Semen is made in the seminal vesicles and prostate higher upstream.

Sex may even be more enjoyable, as the worry or inconvenience of other forms of contraception is removed.

What happens to the sperm?

Sperm are still made as before in the testicles (testes). The sperm cannot get past the blocked vas deferens and are absorbed by the body.

Is there an increased risk of prostate cancer after a vasectomy?

A few studies have shown that there does seem to be an association between vasectomy and a small increased risk of prostate cancer, but currently there is no evidence that vasectomy causes prostate cancer. It is likely there are others factors that link vasectomy and prostate cancer.

Additional Information

Do not consider having the operation unless you and your partner are sure you do not want children, or further children. Consider all sorts of situations, including a tragedy in the family or a break-up of your relationship. Only have a vasectomy if you are sure you would not want more children even in those situations.

It is wise not to make the decision at times of crisis or change, such as after a new baby or termination of pregnancy. It is best not to make the decision if there are any major problems in your relationship with your partner.

Remember there are reversible forms of long-term contraception which are very effective. Consider these as a couple before making your decision. These are all for women. See the separate leaflet called Long-acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs).

Ideally, both partners are happy with the decision before a vasectomy. However, it is not legally necessary to obtain your partner's permission.