{"id":192,"date":"2024-01-19T09:18:24","date_gmt":"2024-01-19T09:18:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/devclinicvadev.wpenginepowered.com\/?p=192"},"modified":"2026-07-14T12:11:32","modified_gmt":"2026-07-14T12:11:32","slug":"what-happens-to-a-man-when-he-gets-a-vasectomy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cliniquevasectomie.ca\/en\/what-happens-to-a-man-when-he-gets-a-vasectomy\/","title":{"rendered":"What Happens to a Man When He Gets a Vasectomy?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary<\/h2>\n

A vasectomy is a permanent contraceptive procedure in which the vas deferens is cut or blocked to prevent sperm from entering the ejaculate. The procedure takes less than 15 minutes under local anaesthesia and does not affect testosterone production, hormone levels, or sexual function. Approximately 20% of Canadian men have had a vasectomy, making it one of the most common male surgical procedures.<\/p>\n

Key Highlights<\/h2>\n

-Learn that vasectomy cuts or blocks the vas deferens to prevent sperm from reaching the ejaculate
\n\u2013 Understand that the procedure takes less than 15 minutes under local anaesthesia with no hospital stay
\n\u2013 Confirm that testosterone production and sexual function remain completely unchanged after vasectomy
\n\u2013 Know that sperm continues to be produced but is reabsorbed harmlessly by the body after vasectomy
\n\u2013 Recognise that approximately 20% of Canadian men have undergone a vasectomy procedure<\/p>\n

Vasectomies are a highly effective method of permanent birth control for men. It's estimated that about 20% of Canadian men opt for vasectomy. Even so, there are a lot of myths and misunderstandings about the procedure. Let's clear up some of the confusion by giving you the facts.<\/p>\n

Do I still need to use birth control after a vasectomy?<\/h2>\n

A vasectomy is the most effective method of birth control after abstinence, but directly following the vasectomy, you can still impregnate a woman. There may be sperm in the stream above the snip, which can enter the ejaculate. About three months after the procedure, we can test the ejaculate for sperm to give you peace of mind.<\/p>\n

What's the recovery process like?<\/h2>\n

A vasectomy doesn't take much time in the clinic, about 10 to 15 minutes and you'll be going home. Plan to sit on a couch with an ice bag. Enjoy some TV time. You may feel some discomfort, but it will be minimal. You should try to give yourself at least two to three days to rest and take it easy after your vasectomy. Most men can resume physical activity in a week.<\/p>\n

Does a vasectomy affect my sex life?<\/h2>\n

Vasectomies do not affect your hormone levels. You still produce testosterone and sperm. You can have sex and ejaculate. It feels the same as before. Vasectomy doesn't lead to erectile dysfunction (ED), either. A vasectomy only affects the way the sperm travels. You shouldn't notice any difference in your ejaculate. Sperm only makes up about 2 to 5% of the total volume. Once you are given the all-clear from our clinic, you can enjoy intimacy without worrying about getting a woman pregnant.<\/p>\n

Where can I get more information about vasectomies?<\/h2>\n

It can be difficult to talk about a vasectomy, but if you're considering it, know that you're not alone. Many men who have had a vasectomy will talk about it. The important first step is to make an appointment with a doctor to discuss your concerns and questions. Book an appointment with Dr. Jean-Philippe Bercier at one of the Clinic Vasectomy locations in Ottawa, Hawkesbury or Montreal to learn more.<\/p>\n

Editor's Note: Since this article was published, Dr. Bercier has been recognized for reaching 25,000 vasectomies. [Read more here<\/a>].<\/em><\/p>\n

FAQ's<\/h2>\n

What physically happens during a vasectomy?<\/h3>\n

During a vasectomy, the surgeon makes a small incision in the scrotum and locates the vas deferens, the tube that carries sperm from the testes to the urethra. A segment of the tube is cut, tied, or cauterised on each side to prevent sperm from passing through. The incision is small and typically heals without sutures within a few days.<\/p>\n

Where do sperm go after a vasectomy?<\/h3>\n

After a vasectomy, sperm continues to be produced by the testes but can no longer reach the ejaculate. Instead, the body naturally reabsorbs the sperm through a normal biological process. This causes no harm or discomfort and has no effect on hormone levels, sexual function, or overall health.<\/p>\n

Does a vasectomy change the appearance of ejaculate?<\/h3>\n

No, a vasectomy does not noticeably change the appearance, volume, or consistency of ejaculate. Sperm accounts for only a very small percentage of semen volume. The fluid produced by the seminal vesicles and prostate, which makes up the majority of ejaculate, is completely unaffected by vasectomy.<\/p>\n

Is a vasectomy reversible?<\/h3>\n

A vasectomy is designed as a permanent method of contraception. While reversal surgery (vasovasostomy) is possible, it is not guaranteed to restore fertility and success rates decline significantly the longer you wait after the original vasectomy. Men should consider vasectomy a permanent decision before proceeding.<\/p>\n

Author Bio:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Dr. Jean-Philippe Bercier<\/span><\/span><\/a>\u00a0is a Canadian physician and Medical Director of Clinique\u00a0<\/span>Vasectomie<\/span>. Trained at the University of Ottawa, he has a background in family medicine, hospital medicine, and obstetrics. He specializes in no-scalpel, no-needle vasectomy techniques and has performed more than 25,000 procedures across Ontario and Quebec.<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>