Vasectomy

A vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure performed on men in which the vas deferens are cut and sealed, preventing sperm from entering the seminal fluid and out with ejaculation. This results in male sterilization and is a permanent form of contraception that is 98-99% effective. It is usually done under local anaesthesia in the doctor's office and does not require an overnight stay in hospital. There may be some pain, swelling, and bruising afterwards, but these usually disappear after a few days. Vasectomies can be reversed in some cases, but this is not always successful. As well as contraception, vasectomies may be used for medical reasons such as controlling certain conditions, and as a treatment for prostate cancer.