Answers to common questions about choosing a vasectomy, the procedure and recovery. Please also read our pre-operative information, procedure information and aftercare instructions. Advice from your own surgical team takes priority.
Is a vasectomy permanent?
Yes. You should regard vasectomy as permanent contraception. Reversal is sometimes possible but is not guaranteed to work and is not routinely available on the NHS. If you may want children in future, discuss other contraceptive options before proceeding.
Will the procedure hurt?
We use local anaesthetic to numb the scrotum. You may feel the initial injection and then movement or pressure, but you should tell the surgeon if you feel pain. Some discomfort, bruising and swelling afterwards are common.
What happens during a no-scalpel vasectomy?
Through a very small opening in the scrotal skin, the surgeon accesses and seals the two tubes that carry sperm. You remain awake under local anaesthetic. See our separate procedure page for details.
Will it affect erections, testosterone or my sex life?
Vasectomy does not reduce testosterone production or normally affect erections, orgasm or sexual enjoyment. You still ejaculate, and most of the semen volume is unchanged.
Am I sterile straight away?
No. Sperm remain beyond the sealed tubes for some time. You must continue reliable contraception until our team has formally confirmed clearance following your semen analysis. Having the procedure alone, or submitting a sample, does not mean you are cleared.
When do I need to provide my semen sample?
Our current service instructions ask for a sample no earlier than four months after surgery and after at least 25 ejaculations. Follow the collection and posting instructions provided with your kit. We will contact you if further samples are needed.
How soon can I return to work, drive or exercise?
Follow your personalised advice and our detailed aftercare page. Allow at least the first 48 hours for rest; physically demanding work may require longer. Do not drive until you can safely perform an emergency stop, and avoid strenuous sport and heavy lifting while healing.
When can I have sex again?
Usually after around a week, once comfortable, following our aftercare advice. Keep using contraception every time until we provide written confirmation that your vasectomy has been successful.
What are the risks?
Most men recover without serious problems, but bruising, bleeding, infection and sperm granulomas can occur. A small number develop persistent scrotal or testicular pain. Vasectomy can occasionally fail or the tubes can reconnect, including rarely after clearance. Discuss individual risks with your surgeon before consenting.
When should I seek medical advice after surgery?
Contact us or your GP promptly if pain or swelling is getting worse, you develop a fever, redness spreads, there is pus or persistent bleeding, or a lump enlarges. Use NHS 111 for urgent advice when your usual team is unavailable, and emergency services for severe emergencies.
Does vasectomy protect against sexually transmitted infections?
No. Vasectomy prevents pregnancy once successful but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Use condoms where STI protection is needed.
Can I still arrange a consultation if I am unsure?
Yes. Please contact the service if you want to discuss your decision, your medical history or the procedure with a clinician before booking. You should feel fully informed before giving consent.
Can I have an NHS or private vasectomy?
NHS referrals are normally made through your GP in accordance with local pathways. Private enquiries can be made directly to Midlands Community Services. Contact us to discuss availability and eligibility.
Further independent information: NHS vasectomy guidance. This page provides general information and does not replace individual clinical advice.