A vasectomy is a quick urology surgery that can prevent pregnancy. It only requires local anesthesia. There's a low risk of complications, and people heal quickly.

Your testicles make sperm. Sperm leaves the testicles through a tube called the epididymis. From there, another tube called the vas deferens, or vas, carries sperm to the prostate where it mixes with other fluid to make semen.

With a vasectomy, the urologist cuts or seals the vas in the scrotum. The sperm can’t get through. After a vasectomy, your testicles still make sperm, but your body absorbs them before they get to the semen. When you ejaculate, there’s no sperm in the semen.

It takes some time for the sperm to move through your reproductive system, so don't to have unprotected sex until the urologist tells you that the vasectomy is successful.

Vasectomy risks are minimal and include:

• Small chance of bleeding
• Infection (call your doctor if you have a fever or your scrotum is red and sore)
• Post-vasectomy pain syndrome, or pain that worsens as you’re healing (this is often treatable)

Always call your urologist with any questions or concerns. They’ll also give you a complete list of things to watch out for.

There are a lot of myths about vasectomy. These are some of the most common questions people ask urologists.

Does a vasectomy hurt?

No matter the type of vasectomy you have, your urologist will work with you to manage pain. Local anesthesia does a great job of numbing the area. You shouldn’t feel pain, only a slight sense of pressure or pulling.

Also, keep in mind that a vasectomy is a far less invasive procedure than female sterilization surgery.

Can a vasectomy cause erectile dysfunction?

No, a vasectomy cannot and does not cause erectile dysfunction or affect sexual performance.

Does a vasectomy work right away?

No, it takes about 3 months. There will still be sperm in the vas immediately after a vasectomy. Your urologist will give you specific instructions about how to know when your semen no longer has sperm. 

You’ll need a certain number of ejaculations, usually about 20, to clear all sperm.

During a follow-up visit, your urologist will test your sperm. If they see no sperm in the sample, the risk of pregnancy is extremely low—less than 1%.

Is vasectomy always permanent?

Vasectomy is permanent, but there are procedures to reverse a vasectomy. These procedures are more invasive and don’t always work. They often aren’t covered by insurance.

It’s best to talk with your partner and be sure you won’t want any more children before deciding on a vasectomy.

Your urologist will explain the procedure to you. If you’re not sure what type of vasectomy the urologist offers, make sure to ask.

Before

You’ll sign a form that gives your urologist permission to perform the vasectomy. 

The clinician will ask you to shave the area around your scrotum and wash it with special antibacterial soap before your surgery. Then, they'll inject local anesthesia to numb the area and check to make sure you're numb before starting.

During

During a vasectomy the urologist cuts the vas deferens and removes part of it. Then, they’ll repeat the process on the other testicle. You’ll be awake but shouldn’t feel pain.

After

You may be uncomfortable after the procedure. During recovery, ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain medicine are usually enough for most people.

Your urologist will give you specific after-care instructions. Most people need about a day or two off work. You should be able to have sex within about a week.

Remember, though, it takes about 3 months and 20 ejaculations for a vasectomy to be effective. Remember not to have unprotected sex until given approval by your urologist otherwise you risk pregnancy. At your follow-up visit, your urologist will check your semen for sperm.