FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the risks?

Is vasectomy safe long-term?

How long does it take?

When do we stop birth control?

How much does it cost?

How will it affect me?

Can vasectomy be reversed?

When can we stop other forms of contraception?

You may resume sexual activity when you feel able (usually about one week but wait until you are completely free of discomfort). However, sperm can remain in the vas deferens above the operative site for weeks or even months after vasectomy. Therefore, to avoid an unplanned pregnancy, you must use a temporary form of contraception until you have received written confirmation that it is safe to stop. Only when two consecutive semen specimens show no sperm are you considered to be sterile and the procedure deemed successful.

The first semen sample is collected three months post-vasectomy, after at least 20 ejaculations. Occasionally, additional ejaculations are necessary before all sperm are eliminated. The final semen sample is collected four months post-vasectomy.