Vasectomy

Vasectomy is a highly effective method of permanent male sterilization.

This surgical procedure is usually performed as an outpatient, using local anesthetic, and lasting a few minutes. The vas deferens (tube connecting the testicle to the urethra) on each side is tied off. After a number of later ejaculations, during which the remaining downstream sperm disappear from the system, permanent sterilization is achieved.

It is approximately 99% effective (failure rate of about 1%).

It should be considered permanent and irreversible, although in some cases, it can be reversed. The greatest success rates at reversal are achieved if reversal occurs soon after the vasectomy. The longer reversal is delayed, the less effective it is likely to be. For men who may wish to have children in the future, vasectomy is not a good choice.

The advantages are permanent sterilization, with no need for hormones, mechanical or chemical methods to prevent further pregnancy.

The disadvantages relate primarily to the surgical procedure itself: infection, bleeding, injury to other organs, and anesthesia complications. These are uncommon with this type of surgery.