Vasectomy questions to ask before you book

What happens during the procedure?

Our urologists use the no-scalpel technique with local anesthesia. It needs no stitches and is a short outpatient procedure.

How long is recovery?

Most men rest with ice and snug underwear for a few days, then ease back into routine. Hold off on heavy lifting, hard exercise and sex for several days.

When is it effective, and how is that confirmed?

Not right away. Sperm can remain for a few months and a number of ejaculations, so keep using other birth control until a semen test shows a zero count.

When can I get back to work?

Many men with desk jobs return the next day. Jobs with heavy lifting usually need more time off, and the same goes for running and the gym.

How should I get ready?

We go over your medicines and tell you which ones, such as aspirin, to pause beforehand. Arrange a ride home, and bring snug cotton underwear for support afterward.

Does a vasectomy protect against infections?

No. It stops sperm and nothing else, so condoms are still needed for protection from sexually transmitted infections.

Can it be undone later?

Plan on it being permanent. A reversal is a separate microsurgery and success is never certain, so if you might want children later, raise it at the consultation.