Vasectomy: A Safe and Permanent Choice

How Does a Vasectomy Work?

A vasectomy works by blocking the tubes (vas deferens) that carry sperm from the testicles to the penis. The testicles continue to produce sperm, but the sperm are simply reabsorbed by the body. Your semen will look and feel exactly the same, but it will no longer contain sperm, so it cannot cause a pregnancy.

A vasectomy **does not** affect your testosterone levels, sex drive, erections, or ability to have an orgasm. Learn more on our Vasectomy Treatment Page.

The No-Scalpel Vasectomy Procedure

The no-scalpel technique is less invasive than the traditional method:

1. Local Anesthesia: The skin of the scrotum is numbed with an injection. You will be awake but feel no sharp pain.
2. Puncture, Not Incision: A special instrument is used to make a tiny puncture in the skin to access the vas deferens tubes. No scalpel is used.
3. Blocking the Tubes: Each tube is lifted through the small opening, then cut, sealed, and put back in place.
4. No Stitches: The tiny opening is so small that it heals on its own without stitches.

The procedure usually takes about 20-30 minutes.

Important Considerations

• It's Not Immediately Effective: You must use another form of birth control until a follow-up semen analysis confirms there are no more sperm in your ejaculate. This can take 2-3 months.
• It's Permanent: While reversal procedures exist, they are complex and not always successful. You should consider a vasectomy a permanent decision.
• It Doesn't Protect Against STIs: A vasectomy only prevents pregnancy. You still need to use condoms to protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Recovery

Recovery is usually quick. Most men experience some mild soreness, swelling, or bruising for a few days, which can be managed with ice packs and rest. Most can return to a desk job in 1-2 days and resume sexual activity and strenuous exercise in about a week.