Vasectomy: birth control

Hey men! Condoms not your thing? You do have another birth control option.

What is a vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a medical procedure that is a permanent form of birth control for men. It leaves the man sterile (unable to fertilize an egg).

How does a vasectomy work?

The tubes, called vas deferens, through which sperm travels to the penis are cut and blocked. A vasectomy is performed in a doctor’s office.

How effective is a vasectomy?

It prevents pregnancy 99.85% of the time.

What are the advantages of a vasectomy?

• highly effective
• no significant long-term side effects
• simpler and safer than female tubal ligation
• quick recovery

What are the disadvantages of a vasectomy?

• There are possible medical complications that can occur with this procedure.
• Reversing a vasectomy is very difficult and costly.

Where can you get a vasectomy?

A vasectomy can be performed by a urologist or a general surgeon. Some family physicians also perform the procedure.

*A vasectomy offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV/AIDS.

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This item was last modified on June 12, 2015