Surgery·Surgery
Vasectomy
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
A vasectomy is a simple surgery for men that stops sperm from being released during ejaculation. It is a permanent form of contraception (birth control) and does not affect your sex drive or ability to have an erection.
Key facts
- Vasectomy is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
- The procedure usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes and is done under local anaesthetic (you are awake but the area is numb).
- It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- After a vasectomy, you still produce semen (the fluid that comes out during ejaculation), but it no longer contains sperm.
Yes, vasectomy is a common choice for men who are sure they do not want to have any more children. In the UK, around 1 in 6 men over the age of 45 has had a vasectomy.