A vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure for male sterilisation, where the vas deferens (sperm-carrying tubes) are cut or sealed effectively preventing sperm from reaching and fertilising a female's egg during intercourse.
Many choose a vasectomy for its high effectiveness in preventing pregnancy, minimal invasiveness, and because it allows for uninterrupted sexual activity without the risk of pregnancy. It’s a reliable and less invasive alternative to female sterilisation methods and requires no ongoing costs like those associated with other forms of birth control.
The vasectomy procedure is typically quick and performed under local anaesthesia.
Most men experience mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising for a few days, which can be managed with OTC pain medication and ice packs. You can return to work in a few days after the procedure and resume sexual activity within a week, though it is recommended to use another form of contraception until you have a follow-up semen test to confirm the absence of sperm.
While vasectomies should be considered a permanent form of birth control, reversal procedures are possible but involve a more complex surgery and is not always successful. Discussing long-term family planning before undergoing a vasectomy is crucial.