The intervention involves blocking the vas deferens tubes, thereby preventing the presence of spermatozoa (sperm) in the fluid during ejaculation.

Mode of action:

  • Due to the intervention, spermatozoa (sperm) can no longer mix with semen. The man still ejaculates during the sexual intercourse, but the ejaculated fluid does not contain spermatozoa (sperm).
Illustration vasectomie de couleur corail et vert mente sur pastille
Advantages
  • It is the most effective contraceptive method.
  • It is an easy and permanent surgery. You no longer have to think about contraception.
  • It has no negative effects on a man’s sex life.
  • The quantity of ejaculate fluid remains the same. Spermatozoa (sperm) represent only 2% of the volume of ejaculated fluid, the rest is produced by the seminal vesicles and the prostate.
  • There is no need to worry about contraception since it is permanent.
  • It is a minor surgery that lasts about 10 to 15 minutes.
Disadvantages
  • It does not protect against sexually transmitted and/or blood-borne infections (STBBIs).
  • It is a permanent method that cannot always be reversed successfully.
  • It is not efficient immediately after the intervention.
  • Contra-indications: local infection, local genital anomaly, sexual dysfunction, or a general health problem.
  • Side effects following the intervention may include swelling, light pinkish bleeding, etc.

How do I access the vasectomy?

Sterilization is carried out after an examination to establish whether the man is a good candidate for surgery. Vasectomy is available in both the public and private healthcare systems, since the procedure is performed under local anaesthetic. The procedure is covered by the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec.

Is this the right method for me?

Resorting to this permanent method is a personal choice. Certain people do not want children or no longer want to procreate for multiple reasons.

Before making this decision, it is important to ensure that it is truly what you want. If you like, you can take the time to weigh the pros and cons (advantages and disadvantages) of this method while reflecting on your future life in 5 to 10 years. It is preferable not to make this decision at an emotional time in your life or if you are going through a crisis.

Instructions for use

The vasectomy is an easier intervention than tubal ligation and the convalescence is generally shorter. The intervention lasts approximately 15 minutes.

It’s important to remember that sterility is not immediate after surgery. Spermatozoa (sperm) are still present in the vas deferens tubes and will be expelled during the following ejaculations. It is therefore necessary to use another contraceptive method until the follow-up consultation with the doctor.

CAUTION!

Although sterilisation may be reversible, it must still be considered definitive, because the techniques that are employed to reverse it are not successful in all cases. Before accepting a vasectomy, certain doctors take into consideration the patients age and the number of children this person has. If a doctor refuses to perform the procedure, you can consult another one.