Vasectomy

We offer no-scalpel vasectomies at Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri to those aged 18 and up (patients using Medicaid must be 21 and up). Planned Parenthood provides vasectomies at three of our nine health centers: in Missouri at Central West End and Springfield, and in Illinois at the Fairview Heights location. Book your consultation by phone or online below.

Have questions? Learn more on our blog.

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Reduced-cost or no-cost vasectomy

Worried about paying for your vasectomy? You may qualify for a reduced-cost or no-cost vasectomy through Title X.

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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. Learn more about what to expect during a vasectomy on our blog.

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. Read more on our blog.

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. We offer no-scalpel vasectomies to those 18 years of age or older (patients using Medicaid must be 21 years of age or older).

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 cost of the consultation appointment, vasectomy procedure, and follow-up appointment depend on insurance coverage. Most insurance plans cover these visits. Illinois and Missouri Medicaid cover vasectomies for those 21 years of age and older. View which insurance plans we accept. If you don’t have insurance, you may qualify for a reduced-cost or no-cost vasectomy through Title X. Please call us for specific information about costs.