Family Tree Clinic

What is Vasectomy?

Vasectomy is an operation for a man to become sterilized.

How Does Vasectomy Work?

Both vas deferens, which carry sperm from the testes to the urethra, are cut, clipped and/or tied. Since sperm can no longer reach the urethra, pregnancy cannot occur.

The out patient procedure takes about 15 minutes and is done with local anesthetic. The recovery time is about 2-3 days. It is important for men to use a back up method until they have a chance to follow up with their doctor. Sperm counts need to be done to establish sterility since it does not happen immediately.

How Effective is Vasectomy?

Perfect use failure rate in first year: less than 1%
Typical use failure rate in first year: less than 1%

What Are the Advantages?

• Safe, very effective method of birth control
• Less risk of complications than a tubal ligation
• Possible increased enjoyment of sex due to low risk of pregnancy
• Maintenance-free after sperm count is zero

What Are the Disadvantages?

• 5% of men have minor complications such as bleeding, infection and swelling immediately following vasectomy
• No guarantee that the vasectomy can be reversed