Vasectomy, also called male sterilisation, is a permanent method of contraception.
It’s a minor procedure that stops sperm being ejaculated from the penis during sex. During a vasectomy, the tubes that carry sperm from your testicles to your penis are cut, blocked or sealed.
This prevents sperm passing from your testicles out of your body through the penis.
In most cases, vasectomy is more than 99% effective.
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How does it work?
It’s usually carried out under local anaesthetic and takes around 30 minutes.
You should rest on the day of the operation and you can expect some bruising or tenderness for a few days after.
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Advantages
- Vasectomy is an effective method of contraception (more than 99%).
- It does not affect your sex drive or how you have sex.
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Disadvantages
- Irreversible method of contraception.
- It can take up to 30 ejaculations for your tubes to be free from sperm, so there’s still a risk of pregnancy (semen tests are done after the operation to make sure that all the sperms have gone. Use another type of contraception (such as condoms) until you’re told it’s OK to stop.
- A vasectomy does not provide protection against STIs.
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Where to get it?
Vasectomy is available on the health service. There is usually a waiting list. If you are interested and would like more information, contact your own GP.