A vasectomy is a simple, permanent surgical procedure in which  the tubes (vas deferens) that join the urethra are cut, clamped, cauterized or tied to prevent sperm from entering the semen. The procedure takes approximately 10-15 minutes and is usually done under a local anesthetic in a doctor’s office.

To access a vasectomy, in Greater Victoria, the VI Choice Clinic offers MSP funded vasectomies if you have a valid BC health card. There are also a number of private, fee for service vasectomy clinics in Victoria that folks can self-refer to. A quick online search will provide the information on the private clinic options.

A vasectomy is a permanent form of birth control and is therefore only recommended for people who are certain they don’t want to be involved in a future pregnancy or feel their family is complete.

Vasectomies are highly effective with few complications

Benefits of the vasectomy as a method of birth control include:

• 99.85% effective
• Simple procedure with few complications, and the recovery time is quick
• Permanent
• No significant long term side effects, no interference with intercourse and no issues with compliance (nothing to remember)
• Method is accessible to sperm-producing partners

Risks

• Vasectomies are not effective immediately. You will need to monitor sperm count for 3 months following the procedure and have a sperm count performed. Once it can be determined that there are no sperm present in ejaculate, it is considered an effective method.
• Regret
• Permanent (Although sometimes reversal procedure can be successful. It should be noted that the cost of reversal is not covered by MSP. If reversal is not successful, reproductive technology may be able to assist in achieving pregnancy)
• No protection against Sexually Transmitted Infections

Vasectomies do not affect ejaculation or virility

A vasectomy causes no changes in the ability to ejaculate as sperm make up less than 5% of the total volume of semen. After the procedure, the rate of sperm production will decrease and those that are produced will break down and be reabsorbed by the body- just as those sperm that are produced but not ejaculated.

Vasectomy has no effect on virility as the procedure doesn’t affect the testes’ production of testosterone. Sex drive, potency, characteristics and sexual pleasure will remain the same.

Many people report improved sexual desire and pleasure after a vasectomy as the risk for pregnancy has been permanently reduced.

Vasectomy should be considered carefully

The decision to have a vasectomy can be complex. Take time to assess your situation and discuss your thoughts and concerns openly and honestly with your\ health care professional and partner(s) if applicable.