Vasectomy Services
Before the procedure
Before a vasectomy can be scheduled, all patients are required to attend a pre-operative counselling and assessment appointment with a dedicated GP.
This appointment is an essential part of the process and is designed to:
- Confirm that you are clinically suitable for a minimally invasive vasectomy to be safely carried out in a primary care setting
- Carry out a focused examination where appropriate
- Review your medical history and any factors that may affect the procedure
- Discuss your reasons for requesting a vasectomy in a supportive and confidential environment
- Ensure you are fully informed about the permanent nature of the procedure, potential risks, benefits, and alternative contraceptive options
The purpose of this consultation is not to persuade or discourage you, but to ensure that you have the opportunity to ask questions, consider your decision carefully, and make an informed and confident choice about whether to proceed.
Only once this assessment and counselling appointment has been completed, and suitability confirmed, will the procedure be booked.
Procedure information
It is a minor surgical procedure that blocks the tubes (vas deferens) which carry sperm from the testicles to the penis. After the procedure, your semen will no longer contain sperm, meaning you will not be able to cause a pregnancy.
Unlike traditional vasectomy techniques, a minimally invasive vasectomy uses small punctures/incisions. This approach is designed to reduce bleeding, bruising, pain, and recovery time.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Vasectomy
- Over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy
- Permanent (no further contraception needed)
- Quick recovery time
- Less discomfort and lower risk of complications than traditional methods
How is the Procedure Performed?
- A local anaesthetic is used to numb the area.
- One or two small punctures/incisions is made on the scrotum depending on the anatomy and the surgeon performing the procedure.
- The vas deferens (sperm-carrying tubes) are accessed through the puncture, then cut and sealed.
- The punctures/incisions are very small and may or may not require stitches.
The procedure typically takes around 30-45 minutes.
Before the Procedure
- You will be asked to shave the scrotal area.
- Eat a light meal beforehand.
- Arrange transport – you should not drive yourself home.
- Wear tight-fitting underwear on the day for post-procedure support.
- Rest for 1–2 days. Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least a week.
- Mild swelling, bruising, or discomfort is normal and usually short-lived. Pain relief (e.g., paracetamol or ibuprofen) can help.
- Supportive underwear can reduce discomfort.
- Most people return to work within 1–2 days, depending on their job.
When Will It Start Working?
Important: The vasectomy is not immediately effective.
- It takes time to clear remaining sperm from your semen.
- You must continue using contraception until a semen test confirms zero sperm.
- This test is typically done around 16 weeks after the procedure.
Although rare, the following may occur:
- Mild pain, swelling, or bruising
- Infection
- Sperm granuloma (a small, harmless lump from sperm leakage)
- Chronic testicular pain (very rare)
- Failure of the procedure (rare, but possible if the tubes reconnect)
Does It Affect Sexual Function?
No. A vasectomy does not affect your sex drive, ability to get an erection, or to have an orgasm. Your semen will look and feel the same—it just won’t contain sperm.
Minimally invasive vasectomy is considered permanent. While reversal is sometimes possible, it is not guaranteed and is not routinely available on the NHS (UK) or typically covered by insurance.
Is It Right for Me?
You may consider a minimally invasive vasectomy if:
- You are certain you do not want more (or any) children
- You and your partner want a reliable, permanent method of contraception
- You prefer to avoid hormonal or temporary contraception
It may not be suitable if you are unsure about your future family plans or feel pressured into the decision.
Follow-Up
You will be asked to provide a semen sample around 16 weeks after the procedure to confirm the absence of sperm. Until then, continue using another form of contraception.
Contact your GP Surgery/111, If You Experience:
- Fever or feeling unwell
- Severe swelling or increasing pain
- Pus or unusual discharge from the puncture site
Meet The Staff
Dr Kebsi Naidoo
General Practitioner Trained in Vasectomy Counselling and Procedures – may be involved in your pre-operative counselling assessment and procedure.
Dr Richard Kelsall
General Practitioner Trained in Vasectomy Counselling and Procedures – may be involved in your pre-operative counselling assessment and procedure.
Mr Stefan Zahariev
Urology Consultant – Procedures only
Mr Richard Simpson
Urology Consultant – Procedures only
Mr Khaled Hosney
Urology Consultant – Procedures only
Mrs Lynne Mounsey
Theatre Nurse – May assist in your procedure.
Mrs Hilary Rayton
Theatre Nurse – May assist in your procedure.
Miss Sarah Carr
Theatre Nurse – May assist in your procedure.
Mrs Carol Heaton
Theatre Nurse – May assist in your procedure.
Your procedure team will consist of either one of the GPs or Urology Consultants, one theatre nurse and a healthcare assistant.