Vasectomy
The ultimate 'set and forget' of the contraception world. A permanent option for people with uteruses who know they're done (or never started) with baby-making.
Gets an A+ in pregnancy prevention.
The cheat Sheet
Common brand names
The snip
Preventing pregnancy
Over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy
Starting on this method
You get sterilisation done through a healthcare provider, usually a GP referral to a specialist or clinic that does the procedure.
Lasts for
Sterilisation doesn’t kick in instantly. After getting a vasectomy, you’ll need to wait a few months (and a sperm test!) to confirm you’re in the clear. Once it’s effective, this method lasts forever.
Hormones
Nope, no synthetic hormones involved.
STIs
No protection against STIs
Periods
A vasectomy is a contraception option for people with testicles, so it doesn’t affect periods.
Acne/skin
No effect to skin/acne
Mood/emotions
No effect to mood/emotions
Pregnancy after removal
Sterilisation is designed to be permanent. Reversal is sometimes possible but tricky, expensive, and not guaranteed, so pregnancy after isn’t something to bank on.
Visibility
Sterilisation doesn’t leave anything visible. A vasectomy leaves a tiny scar that's often hard to spot once healed.
Financial investment
In Australia, Medicare covers part of the cost for sterilisation if done through an eligible provider, but you might still have out-of-pocket costs depending on where and how it’s done.
For pregnancy to happen, sperm have to meet an egg. After puberty, your testicles are basically little factories making new sperm on the daily. Normally, those sperm would travel through two tubes called the vas deferens (aka the sperm highways), swing past the seminal vesicles and prostate (where semen is made), and mix in together before heading out the penis through the urethra - aka ejaculation or cumming.
A vasectomy puts up a permanent roadblock on those sperm highways. The vas deferens are cut and sealed, which means sperm never make it into the semen. Your body just quietly reabsorbs them instead. You’ll still ejaculate the same way as before, semen is still made by the prostate and seminal vesicles, it just doesn’t contain sperm.
Think of it like this: the traffic (sperm) is blocked at the on-ramp, but the highway (ejaculation) still runs smoothly.
Procedure:
- Done under local anaesthetic (you’re awake, but numb down there).
- The doctor makes one or two tiny openings in the front of the scrotum, then cuts and seals each vas deferens. The openings are closed with either a stitch or just pressing the skin edges together. This is called the open method.
- The other method is call a no-scalpel vasectomy, the doctor makes one or two small punctures with fine forceps (a surgical tool that looks a bit like tweezers, used to hold or move tissue) to reach the vas deferens. Same cut, just without stitches.
- Quick and low-risk, usually done in under 30 minutes. Most people head home the same day and are back to normal life within a few days (with a little scrotal support and some quality time with ice packs).
- People who don’t want any more kids
- Folks who are certain future babies aren’t on their bingo card
- Anyone who loves the idea of reliable contraception without daily reminders, refill runs or pregnancy scares.
- Your cum will still look, feel and taste the same after the vasectomy. You’d have to look at it underneath a microscope to see a difference. Also there’s no change to orgasm or your sex drive!
- Getting a vasectomy doesn’t protect against STIs, so condoms may still be your best mate.
- You won’t be firing blanks straight away, it can take a few months (and a sperm test) before the vasectomy can be a reliable method of contraception. In the meantime, you’ll need another method like condoms.
The not-so-fun stuff
Common side effects
Let’s be honest, no contraceptive method is perfect. Some people breeze through a vasectomy, others have a slightly bumpier recovery, physically, emotionally, or mentally and every experience is valid.
Sterilisation is generally safe and super effective, but it’s still a surgical procedure, so it comes with possible side effects and risks. We want you to have the full picture so you can make a decision that works for your body, not just what looks good on paper.
So here it is: the good, the meh, and the stuff worth keeping an eye on.
- Bruising for a few days after your procedure. This usually goes away after a week.
- Pain and/or swelling in the scrotum for a few days after the procedure.
- Possible small scar where they do the incision.
Less Common But important to know
Right after a vasectomy, sperm can still hang around in the tubes. Until your 3 month semen test confirms they’re gone, pregnancy is still possible. That’s why you’ll need backup contraception during this window.
This is rare, and usually mild. If it happens, oral antibiotics generally sort it out.
Ongoing testicular or scrotal pain that can pop up weeks, months, or even years later. In most circumstances, it settles down on its own, but in rare situations, it may be worth seeing a specialist for a review, or even more surgery may be needed.
This is basically a big internal bruise in the scrotum, caused when blood collects under the skin. It can make the area swollen, tender, and look more dramatic than it actually is. However, you can massively lower your risk by taking it easy post procedure. No heavy lifting, straining, or intense exercise in the first week. If your job involves lifting, organise some time off or ask for lighter duties while you heal. Most haematomas clear up on their own, but following the “rest, ice, support” rule makes them a lot less likely to happen in the first place.
Conversation starters
Mention you’re getting a vasectomy and watch people’s eyebrows do gymnastics.
Some will cheer you on, others will act like you’ve just announced you’re moving to Mars. Whether it’s your partner, your doctor, or your mum who ‘just wants to make sure you’ve thought about it,’ here’s how to start those chats and respond calmly in the driver's seat.
With your partner(s)
This conversation is about respect, not permission. It’s your body and your choice, but if you’re in a relationship, it makes sense to share your thinking.
Try:
- “I’ve been seriously thinking about long-term contraception, and sterilisation feels like it could be the best option for where we are at in life. What are your thoughts?”
- “I’ve been looking into sterilisation, and it’s starting to feel like maybe it’s something I want to do but I want to talk it out with you.”
- “This doesn’t mean I don’t love you or our life together. It just means I’m clear about not wanting (more) kids.”
If there’s pushback or surprise, take a breath. Invite curiosity, not debate.
With your family
Some people tell their family, others don’t and that’s 100% your call, but if you’re close or anticipate questions, it can help to frame the conversation with that cool-as-a-cucumber confidence.
Try:
- “I’ve made a personal decision about contraception. I’m getting tubal occlusion/a vasectomy.”
- “I’ve been thinking a lot about my future and what I want, and I’ve made a personal decision about contraception that I’d like to share with you.”
If they go full “but what if you change your mind?!” mode, you can say:
- “I understand that’s a common worry. I’ve considered that possibility, and I’m still confident in my decision.”
With your doctor
This one can be the trickiest, but also the most important. Be clear, prepared, and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. It’s your body at the end of the day!
Try:
- “I’d like to discuss permanent contraception options. I’ve done my research and believe sterilisation is the right choice for me.”
If they say no or brush you off:
- “I understand this is permanent. I’ve thought through the risks, alternatives, and future implications.”
- “I’m aware some doctors are hesitant with younger patients, but I’d like to be assessed based on my reasoning, not my age.”
- “Can you refer me to someone who is more comfortable supporting reproductive autonomy?”
I’m young, will there be pushback if I decide to get this done?
Hmm yes, there can be pushback.
Especially if you’re under 30, haven’t had children, or don’t “fit the mould” of who people think should choose sterilisation (I know, mind your own bees wax Brenda!), but that doesn’t mean it’s not a valid or smart choice for you.
You deserve respectful, nonjudgmental healthcare. If a provider makes you feel dismissed or patronised, that says more about them than you.
Keep advocating for yourself, and know you're not alone!
2am thoughts
getting the snip
What to actually expect if you're getting A vasectomy
So, you’ve decided on a vasectomy, the ultimate ‘set it and forget it’ of contraception. Here’s your backstage pass to what to expect, plus some handy tips to get you from decision to done!
1. Reflect and get clear on your "why"
You don’t need to justify your choice to us (we get it), but some providers will ask you to explain your reasons. Feeling clear and confident going in helps (a lot!).
Hot tip: Write down your reasons ahead of time. Use language like “I’ve carefully considered…” or “I’m confident this is the right decision for me long-term.”
2. Find the right provider (this part matters)
Some doctors may be unwilling or hesitant, especially if you're young, childfree, or AMAB. That’s not a medical rule, it’s personal bias. You’re allowed to get a second (or third) opinion.
Hot tip: Search for reproductive autonomy-friendly providers, or look for clinics that specialise in vasectomies without childbearing or age requirements. Online forums or health advocacy groups often share recommendations.
3. Book a consultation
You’ll typically have a pre-procedure consult where your provider will explain:
- What the procedure involves
- Possible risks and outcomes
- That it's permanent (and what that means)
- Alternatives (which you’ll probably have to say "yes I’ve considered")
- Expect some probing questions, especially if you’re younger. It’s not always fun, but staying calm and firm helps.
4. Get informed consent
This is a legal step. You’ll sign a form that confirms you understand:
- The procedure is permanent
- There are small risks (like any surgery)
- Reversal is not guaranteed
- You’ve made this decision voluntarily
- Some countries or providers may enforce a cooling-off period (e.g. 30 days) before scheduling the procedure.
5. Schedule and undergo the procedure
A vasectomy is usually done under local anaesthetic (you’re awake, just numb down there) at a doctor’s office or clinic. The doctor makes a tiny opening or puncture in the scrotum to snip and seal the vas deferens (the tubes that carry sperm). It’s quick, literally takes 15-30 minutes and you’re heading home the same day, in some supportive underwear and a good tv series queued up!
Vasectomy procedure prep
Before the practical stuff, take a moment to check in with yourself. Even when you’re certain, surgery can stir up all kinds of feelings - relief, nerves, excitement, maybe even a flicker of “is this really happening?” All normal. This is your choice, your body, and your timeline, so give yourself permission to feel whatever comes up.
Before the procedure
- You might need to stop taking any medication that you are on, however check with your Doctor at least a week before to make sure.
- Bring tight-fitting underwear to keep things snug (future post-snip you will thank you!)
- Shower on the day of your procedure and give your penis and balls a good wash.
- Your doctor may ask you to do some light pruning (aka trim the hair around your balls). If so, use a fresh disposable razor (no fancy razors or creams).
- Call upon a support person and organise with them to pick you up after the procedure.
During the procedure
- You’re completely awake, but with numb balls thanks to a local aneasthetic.
- Your doctor will perform either a small incision (open method) or pinhole puncture (no-scalpel).
- The vas deferens (the tubes that carry sperm) are cut, tied, clipped, or sealed with heat.
- Tubes tucked back, skin closed with stitches, glue, or left to heal naturally.
- Some people describe the sensation like a tugging or feeling things move around in the area.
- This all takes a casual 15-20 minutes (that's less than an episode of Brooklyn 99).
After the procedure
- Expect some bruising, swelling, and ache. This usually goes away in a few days.
- Wear some snug underwear for at least 3 days, just to keep everything comfy and supported.
- Use an ice pack (over clothes/towel) for 2-3 days to keep swelling down.
- Put your feet up and relax. Watch that Netflix series you’ve been meaning to start. This is your opportunity to completely switch off!
- Avoid lifting anything too heavy (definitely no hardcore gym workouts) for at least 48 hours. Then, light activity for 2-3 days.
- Wait at least a week before having sex (this includes masturbation). You’ll also need backup contraception until a sperm test confirms you’re all clear. This usually takes 3 months or 20 ejaculations.
- Shower but no baths for a week (sorry, the hot tub will have to wait!)
- Call your doctor if you get worsening pain, swelling, fever, bleeding, funky smells, or weird colour changes.
Hitting the Reverse button after a vasectomy
A vasectomy is usually chosen by people who feel absolutely certain they’re done with kids or never wanted them in the first place. But life can flip, feelings can shift, and that’s completely valid.
Reversal is sometimes possible, though not always successful, and depends on things like your age, how the procedure was originally done, and your overall reproductive health. If you're feel unsure, chat with your Doctor about your options.
Where this info comes from
This page was created using guidance from trusted Australian and international health organisations, clinical guidelines, and peer-reviewed research. These sources support the medical accuracy, accessibility, and lived experience approach behind this content.
- BetterHealth Channel - vasectomy
- Family Planning NSW - Male sterilisation
- Healthdirect Australia - vasectomy
- Sexual Health Victoria - vasectomy (sterilisation)
- SHINE SA - sterilisation
- MSI Australia - vasectomy
- Family Planning Tasmania - vasectomy
- Vasectomy Australia
- The Lowdown - vasectomy
- Otten, C. (2021). The sex ed you never had. Allen & Unwin.
