A vasectomy is an elective surgical procedure that men can choose to have
if they do not want to father any more children. It’s a form of
lasting male birth control.
A vasectomy involves the cutting and sealing of two tubes called the vas
deferens. These tubes carry sperm from the testicle to the urethra (the
tube inside the penis). Once cut, sperm doesn’t have a way to get
in or out of the body.
Men who have a vasectomy can still ejaculate
A vasectomy does not prevent erection or ejaculation. However, after the
vas deferens are sealed, the semen will not contain sperm. Testosterone
levels, and all other male sex traits, typically remain the same.
While there is a procedure to reverse a vasectomy, it does not always work—so
it’s important to carefully consider your decision.
Why do people choose to have a vasectomy?
There are a variety of reasons why men choose to have a vasectomy. It’s
a personal choice, and you should feel empowered to do what’s right for you.
Choosing a vasectomy as a form of birth control may be a good choice if:
You are an adult male
You are sure you do not want children in the future
You are in a stable relationship and both partners agree to permanent birth control
Pregnancy would be a health risk for your partner
You or your partner has a genetic disorder that you don’t want to
pass on to a child
A vasectomy may not be the best choice for you if:
You aren’t sure if you want to have children in the future
You may have other partners in the future
You plan to just reverse your vasectomy when you decide to have children
