Vasectomy FAQ

Even though vasectomies are generally common knowledge, there’s a lot of misinformation or questions when it comes to the specifics. There are myths about vasectomies changing how sex feels, that it causes cancer, or leads to erectile dysfunction. Those are major claims that would make anyone think twice about getting a vasectomy. We aren’t medical professionals, and you should always consult your doctor with questions, but we’re here to provide medically backed answers to common vasectomy questions. Not only do we want to provide quality products for your sex life, but champion accurate sexual health information that helps you and your partners make informed decisions. 

What is a vasectomy?

Vasectomies are a form of permanent birth control that is done through a minor medical procedure. In our Anatomy 101 article, we went over the ins and outs of the reproductive system. In the penis, the vas deferens consists of two tubes which the sperm moves through to meet up with the semen. In a vasectomy, the vas deferens are cut and sealed so that the sperm cannot travel any further. The body continues to make sperm, but they naturally die out over time and are absorbed back into the body. 

There are two types of vasectomies: conventional and no-scalpel (also known as NSV). Both vasectomies involve cutting and sealing the vas deferens and are done with a local anesthetic that completely numbs the area. The main difference is how the doctor accesses the vas deferens. Conventional vasectomies utilize two small cuts in the scrotum whereas NSVs make one to two punctures in the scrotum and use a tool to stretch the skin. With conventional vasectomies, the doctor will often close the incision with stitches. For an NSV, they may use surgical glue or let the hole heal on its own.

How long does it take to get a vasectomy?

The process is a quick outpatient procedure, usually taking roughly 15 to 20 minutes.

Should I get a vasectomy?

We can’t tell you whether a vasectomy is right for you. This is a decision between you, your doctor, and any current partners. People who are typically good candidates for vasectomies are those who know they don’t want to have children or are not wanting any more children. If you or your partner may want to have children in the future or are unsure about your decision changing, talk to your doctor about alternative and less permanent birth control methods.

Can’t my partner just get their tubes tied?

Those who have a uterus can get their fallopian tubes blocked or removed to prevent eggs from moving from the ovaries to the uterus. This is another part of the decision-making process between your partner, the doctor, and you. Tubal ligation is an operation done under anesthesia, making it far more intensive, invasive, and expensive than a vasectomy. 

Do vasectomies hurt?

Pain is different for everyone, but the procedure itself shouldn’t be painful since it’s done with a local anesthetic. The anesthesia is often the most uncomfortable part, causing a sting during the injection. You may feel some tugging or pulling during the procedure, but people do not often report pain. After the vasectomy is complete, you may feel some bruising or discomfort during recovery or with your first post-vasectomy erection, but your doctor will give pain management recommendations in your post-op instructions.

Are vasectomies reversible?

Vasectomies should be considered a permanent form of birth control. Almost all vasectomies can be reversed through the reconnection of the vas deferens, but there is no guarantee that conception will be possible after the reversal. Pregnancy rates range from about 30% to 90% after vasectomy reversals. Vasectomy reversals are longer surgeries, but are still outpatient, taking around 2-4 hours. 

How do I prepare for a vasectomy?

Your doctor will go over specific instructions during your consultation to ensure you’re set up for success. This is a great time to ask any questions you may have and make sure you feel confident in the next steps. You’ll likely be asked to stop taking certain medications that can act as blood thinners, shower ahead of time and trim your pubic hair, and bring a pair of tighter fitting underwear (but loose pants) to support the scrotum and reduce swelling after the procedure.

What’s the recovery time?

Your doctor will give specific post-op instructions, but generally it’s recommended to avoid strenuous physical activity for 48 to 72 hours. Most people resume full activity after about a week. There may be some swelling or discomfort after the vasectomy, but this can be managed with ice packs and over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen. 

How long do I need to wait before I can have sex after getting a vasectomy?

Vasectomies are not immediately effective and a secondary form of birth control (we’re biased towards our condoms) should be used until azoospermia is confirmed, which is the absence of sperm in semen. Typically, your doctor will have you ejaculate 20 to 30 times in order to clear any remaining sperm. They’ll then ask you to complete a post-vasectomy semen analysis (PVSA) 8 to 16 weeks after the vasectomy. 

Research has shown that many people do not end up completing their PVSA since they don’t want to go back into the office, take more time off from work, or assume all vasectomies are successful. PVSAs are the only way to guarantee that a vasectomy is successful, and that all sperm has cleared the system. 

Can someone still get pregnant if I have had a vasectomy?

Vasectomies with azoospermia confirmation are around 99.95% effective. There are always breakthrough cases with about every 1 in 1,000 vasectomies still resulting in pregnancy, but it is one of the most effective forms of birth control outside of abstinence. 

Even after 20 to 30 ejaculations and the 8 to 16 week waiting period, not all sperm may be cleared from the semen and additional time may be needed with another form of birth control. This is why it’s crucial to complete the PVSA to avoid risking accidental pregnancy. 

Do vasectomies change erections, orgasms, or ejaculation?

The first erection after a vasectomy can cause discomfort or tenderness around the scrotum, but it should resolve on its own quickly. Once you’ve fully recovered, there should be no change to your erections, orgasms, or ejaculation. Some research shows both men and women have increased arousal, confidence, and sexual satisfaction since they no longer have concerns about accidental pregnancies or using other forms of birth control.

Will a vasectomy lower my testosterone or sex drive?

Nope — research shows that there is no impact on testosterone levels or libido after getting a vasectomy. 

Do vasectomies protect against STIs?

This is a hard NO. Vasectomies is a form of birth control; they do not protect against any STIs. If you’re not aware of your partner’s STI status or you are sleeping with multiple people, you should always use a condom (and luckily you’re in just the right place for that).