Vasectomy

Also known as the snip

What is it?

A vasectomy is a permanent method of contraception, meaning that once a man has had the procedure he will not be able to get a woman pregnant.

How does it work?

A vasectomy involves cutting, blocking or sealing the vas deferens tubes which allow sperm to travel from your testicles to your penis. This is done under local anaesthetic, and does not require a stay in hospital.

How effective is it?

Having a vasectomy is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. 

What are the advantages?

Having a vasectomy is designed to be permanent, and there are no long or short-term side effects.

What are the downsides?

It is not 100% effective, and in a very small number of cases the vas deferens may rejoin, meaning the man becomes fertile again. However, it also is not easily reversed, so it is important to be absolutely certain that having a vasectomy is right for you.

Things to bear in mind

Having a vasectomy is a big decision to take, and your doctor will probably recommend you think things through carefully, or have counselling, before going ahead, so that you can fully explore all of the issues. It is not usually offered to young men who have not had any children.

Vasectomies are not immediately effective, because there can still be some sperm left in the tubes leading to the penis. For this reason it is important to use contraception until you have been tested to check if there is any sperm still present, and you can only be certain the vasectomy has been successful when you have had a negative sperm test.

Having a vasectomy does not provide any protection against sexually transmitted infections or HIV like a condom does, and so it is important to use condoms if you or your partner/s have not been screened for these.

Where can I get it from and how much does it cost?

You can be referred for a free vasectomy on the NHS by a doctor. This can be your GP, another GP who you have registered with for family planning services, or a doctor at a family planning or sexual health clinic. It is also possible to pay for private treatment, which costs from around £400.