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MALE

STERILISATION

PROS

Easy to use
As it is a permanent method of contraception, you don't need to remember to take/use it every day or every time you have sex.
Not user dependent
As it is a permanent method of contraception, you can't forget to take it or use it in the wrong way.
Highly effective
Over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Periods
Doesn't affect your periods.
Permanent
Long term solution to contraception.
Hormone free
It's a non-hormonal method of contraception.
Doesn’t interrupt sex
You don't need to worry about contraception in the moment.
No hormonal side effects
No hormonal side effects such as weight gain, mood swings and breast tenderness.

CONS

Not reversible
Not usually reversible.
STIs
Does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Administration
Requires a medical procedure.

The pros and cons listed are not exhaustive. Talk to your doctor or nurse for more information.

SIDE EFFECTS

Vasectomy side effects

In most men, the only side effects of a vasectomy will be mild discomfort, swelling and bruising of the testicles for a few days afterwards. In very rare cases more long term and complicated side effects may occur. This could include:

A collection of blood inside the scrotum (haematoma).
Hard lumps caused by sperm leaking from the tubes (granulomas).
Surgical site infection.
Long term testicle pain.
The vas deferens tube can reconnect (but this is very rare).

PREPARING FOR YOUR GP APPOINTMENT

TALKING TO YOUR DOCTOR

Get the information you need for an informed discussion with your doctor.

LEARN MORE

PP-UN-WHC-GB-0307 July 2025