Male sterilisation

Vasectomy (Male sterilisation) is a surgical procedure that provides permanent contraception.

A vasectomy is more than 99% effective.

How does it work?

A vasectomy works by stopping sperm getting into a man's semen, the fluid that he ejaculates. The tubes that carry sperm from a man's testicles to the penis are cut, blocked or sealed with heat. This means that when a man ejaculates, the semen has no sperm in it and a woman's egg can't be fertilised.

Advantages

  • is useful for couples who have completed their families.
  • does not affect your hormone levels, sex drive or interfere with sex.
  • it may be chosen as a simpler and safer alternative to female sterilisation

Disadvantages

  • the procedure should be considered permanent.
  • it is difficult to reverse and attempts to do so often fail
  • you can have discomfort and swelling for a short time after the procedure.
  • does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

For more information, please visit your GP or family planning clinic.