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If the mention of the ‘snip’ makes your partner cross his legs uncomfortably and clear his throat audibly, it is likely he just doesn’t have the facts on this simple procedure. Female sterilisation is a major surgery while a vasectomy is a non-invasive, quick procedure that should really be considered as an alternative.

What is it, then?

Vasectomy is a simple and short procedure that only takes about 20 minutes to complete. In cutting the vas deferens, a barrier is created between sperm and semen. It’s the perfect solution for a couple that considers their family complete and want a safe, reliable form of contraception.

The procedure is most commonly performed in a day clinic under local anaesthetic. A small incision is made in the upper part of the scrotum under the penis, and then the vas deferens are tied off and cut apart. Where necessary the skin incision is stitched. In most cases the patient can go home on the same day.

What are the risks?

The risks posed by a vasectomy are very low. About one in 50 men who’ve had the procedure experience swelling and discomfort and there is a one in 4,500 chance that sperm ducts won’t completely seal and a second vasectomy will need to be performed. Recovery takes just a day or two.

Recovery

A vasectomy is not effective immediately so as a precaution it is recommended that an alternative form of birth control be used for a few weeks after having the procedure performed.

It has been observed that men can resume a normal sex life as soon as they wake up from the surgery as the procedure does not in any way affect the ability to obtain or maintain an erection. As such, there is no period in which men are medically advised to abstain from sex.

Find out more from NHS Choices.

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