Vasectomies

We offer no-scalpel vasectomies at Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri to those aged 21 and up.

Drop by any of our locations or call us to talk to a health care professional about our services.

Call: 314-531-7526 Call: 417-883-3800

What is a vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a safe and effective permanent birth control method for men. It's a simple procedure performed in a quick outpatient setting. Local numbing medicine is given in the area. There is very little bleeding and no stitches are required. This procedure has been used for many years and has very few side effects.

How effective is a vasectomy?

A vasectomy is extremely effective. Less than 1 percent of men who have the procedure will cause a pregnancy each year. Because some sperm remain beyond the blocked part of the tubes, the procedure is not effective right away. You must use another form of birth control (like a condom) until the sperm are gone. This can take up to three months.

How does a vasectomy work?

A no-scalpel vasectomy is performed by first numbing the skin of the scrotum by placing a local anesthetic. The medication will cause a small, short burning sensation and then the tissue will be numb. The vas tubes that bring sperm from the testes to the semen are blocked about an inch above the testes. When the tubes are closed, sperm cannot leave a man's body and cause pregnancy. There is no change in sex drive, no change in climax sensation, and no change in erections.

Who should get a vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a great choice for anyone who does not want to have a child biologically in the future due to personal preference or a partner's health risk. It's also a great choice for those who've completed their families. The service not available to anyone under 21.

Will I be infertile right away?

No. Sperm will still be in your tubes right after the surgery. It may take 8 to 16 weeks and 12 to 20 ejaculations before all the sperm are out of your semen. A semen test will show if there are sperm in your semen. You will bring in a sample of your ejaculate about three months after the procedure. A vasectomy does not prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections. A condom should be used if you are at risk for sexually transmitted infections.

What can I expect after the procedure?

There is little recovery time and most patients return to work the next day. On the day of the procedure, you should plan to go home and rest for the evening. A slight amount of aching or discomfort is common, and you will be prescribed a mild pain killer. Swelling may occur and this is normal; an ice pack may be helpful for the first 24 hours. Bruising of the scrotal skin is common and may take several days to resolve. Sometimes a small lump may form on one side of the scrotum; this is not a cause for concern, but may take several weeks to completely go away.

If you have no or minimal swelling you can resume normal activity the following day. Wear an athletic supporter (jock strap) as needed. You may bathe or shower normally the day following the procedure. Refrain from heavy exercise or lifting more than 30 pounds for one week. Remember, sexual activity may resume as soon as you feel ready, but you must use protection until the semen test shows no sperm.

How do I prepare for a vasectomy?

You will see one of our clinicians about a week prior to your procedure to make sure you are a candidate at your pre-op visit. Most people are candidates if they are sure they don't want to have any, or any more, children. Avoid medicines containing aspirin for five days before the vasectomy and be sure to shave the underside of the penis and the front wall of the scrotum on the day of the procedure. Be sure to bring a jock strap or well supported underwear for the day of the procedure, as this will help with recovery.

How much does a vasectomy cost?

The procedure, including the consultation appointment, anesthesia and follow-up appointment, costs up to $700 - much less than the cost of a private doctor or the lifetime cost of contraception. Most insurance plans cover these visits and we are happy to help you figure this out. Some may qualify for further discounts, making the procedure even more affordable than any other Missouri or Illinois provider.

If you have any specific questions regarding cost, then please contact your nearest health center.