Surgery
Vasectomy
A vasectomy is a quick, minor operation for permanent male contraception, cutting or sealing the tubes that carry sperm.
Quick answer
Vasectomy: what it is, why it's done and what happens
A vasectomy cuts or seals the vas deferens — the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles — so that semen no longer contains sperm. It is intended as a permanent form of contraception.
- Why it is done: It is chosen by men who are sure they do not want to father children (or more children), as a highly effective and permanent method of contraception.
- What happens: Usually done under local anaesthetic in a clinic, the surgeon reaches the tubes through a tiny puncture or small cut in the scrotum, then cuts and seals them.
What it is
A vasectomy cuts or seals the vas deferens — the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles — so that semen no longer contains sperm. It is intended as a permanent form of contraception.
Why it is done
It is chosen by men who are sure they do not want to father children (or more children), as a highly effective and permanent method of contraception.
What happens
Usually done under local anaesthetic in a clinic, the surgeon reaches the tubes through a tiny puncture or small cut in the scrotum, then cuts and seals them. It typically takes about 15–20 minutes.
Recovery
Some soreness, swelling or bruising is common for a few days; supportive underwear and pain relief help. You must use other contraception until a semen test confirms no sperm remain, usually after about 12 weeks.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include bruising, infection, and occasionally longer-lasting testicular discomfort. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, and reversal is not always successful, so it should be considered permanent.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Vasectomy: frequently asked questions
Am I sterile straight after a vasectomy?
No. Sperm can remain in the tubes for some time, so you must keep using contraception until a semen sample, usually taken around 12 weeks later, confirms there are no sperm.
Can a vasectomy be reversed?
Reversal is sometimes possible but is not always successful and is not routinely available. For this reason, a vasectomy should be regarded as a permanent decision.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- British Association of Urological Surgeons / relevant professional body
Building patient-education content for procedures?
We create clear, accurate, referenced medical explainers and decision aids for teams and learners.