About Vasectomy
What is Vasectomy?
Vasectomy is an effective form of permanent male contraception. It is a safe and simple procedure compared with female sterilisation.
What is No Scalpel Vasectomy?
This is a procedure, which does not need the use of a scalpel to make a cut in the scrotum. Under local anaesthetic, a small surgical clamp is used on the outside of the scrotum to hold the vas deferens (the tube that carries the sperm). The vas is lifted through a tiny keyhole made on the skin, heat-sealed and divided, then placed back into the scrotum.
This is an advanced surgical procedure, not yet widely available (most hospitals tend to use the old scalpel technique involving scalpel and stitches).
The advantages of this procedure compared with the old scalpel method are:
- No stitches
- Less damage to the tissues
- Shorter operating time
- Quicker recovery
- Reduced complications, for example pain, bleeding, haematoma (clot in the scrotum)
- Reduced risk of infection
What is No Needle Anaesthesia?
For patients who prefer not to have the local anaesthetic administered by an injection,No Needle Anaesthesia is available.A high pressure spray delivers anaesthetic through the scrotal skin into the tissues around the vas deferens.
How does it work?
Sperms are produced in the testes and carried along the tube, called the vas deferens. It mixes with the seminal fluid near the prostate and is ejaculated through the penis during intercourse.

When a vasectomy operation is carried out, the vas is divided and heat-sealed to stop the sperm reaching the seminal fluid and the penis. The ejaculation contains only seminal fluid and no sperm.
A vasectomy will not affect the male hormone as the testosterone from the testes continues to be released into the blood stream directly. There is, therefore, no need to worry about a loss of ‘masculinity’.
Is it painful?
We all have different pain thresholds. However, with the improved local anaesthetic technique, any discomfort will be reduced to a minimum.There may be some minor discomfort while holding the testes for a short while.
Our No Scalpel Vasectomy aims to ensure that the operation is as pain-free as possible for the patients through the improved local anaesthetic technique and minimally invasive keyhole surgery.
Is vasectomy a popular contraception?
An increasing number of men are choosing a vasectomy because it is a simple, relatively straightforward procedure and an effective form of permanent contraception.
It is safer and more popular than female sterilisation.
Do I need my spouse’s/partner’s consent?
It is good to discuss this with your spouse/partner, although the final decision is yours.
Are you sure you want a permanent form of contraception?
Have you considered an alternative form of contraception?
Is your family complete?
Are you in a stable relationship?
Would you consider having a family in the case of a new relationship? How would you feel if you had a vasectomy and your new partner wanted to have children?
How would you feel if, in an unfortunate event, something happened to your child?
You may not be suitable for vasectomy if:
- You are very young and have no children.
- Your current relationship is not stable.
- You are under stress or suffering from depression.
- You are doing it just to please your spouse/partner.
- You are thinking of having a vasectomy reversal in case you change your mind.
Through our counselling we will aim to make sure that vasectomy is the right method of contraception for you.
Can a vasectomy be reversed?
You should consider a vasectomy to be permanent. A reversal operation is not currently available on the NHS and there is no guarantee that it will be successful.If you are seriously considering a vasectomy, it's best to assume that it will be a permanent form of contraception.
Will it affect my sex life?
No. Sex drive is due to your sex hormones, and psychological factors. You will still produce your sex hormones normally.
By eliminating the fear of accidental pregnancy, the sex may be more relaxed and enjoyable.
Will I ejaculate normally?
Yes. 95% of what you ejaculate is seminal fluid. This will not be affected by vasectomy and you will be able to have normal ejaculations.
Making an appointment
If you are a private patient, you can book an appointment direct with us without being referred by your GP.
If you are an NHS patient , you will need to make an appointment to see your GP in order that you can be referred.
In the case of private patients, we will always ask your permission before we write to your GP after the operation.
