Vasectomy (Male Sterilisation)
A vasectomy is a minor operation that provides permanent male contraception. The tubes that carry sperm from the testicles (the vas deferens) are cut and sealed, so semen no longer contains sperm.
It has become increasingly popular with men and couples in recent years because it is quick, done under local anaesthetic, and recovery is fast. It is more than 99% effective.
“It's a procedure we carry out in 15 to 20 minutes under local anaesthetic. The patient goes home the same day and, after three or four days of wound care, returns to work and his normal routine.”
How Is It Performed?
- Local anaesthetic is used, so you are awake but feel no pain
- The sperm duct on each side is cut and tied near the testicle
- The procedure takes 15–20 minutes
- You go home the same day
Recovery
- Mild discomfort, swelling or bruising for a few days is common
- Return to work and normal routine after about three to four days of wound care
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for about a week
When Is It Safe to Have Unprotected Sex?
Sperm already in the ducts beyond the cut needs to be cleared first. We ask you to use contraception for at least seven or eight ejaculations, and then do a semen analysis. Only when the analysis confirms there is no sperm in the semen do we give the all-clear for unprotected sex.
Does It Affect My Health or Sex Life?
No. Testosterone, desire, erections, orgasm and the volume of semen are not noticeably affected. The testicles keep producing sperm; sperm that cannot get through simply reach the end of their lifespan and are absorbed by the body. This does not cause infection, abscesses or any other harm.
What If I Want Children Later?
Vasectomy should be considered permanent. However, because sperm production continues in the testicles, sperm can still be retrieved directly from there and used with assisted reproductive techniques if you later want a child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a vasectomy painful?
The procedure is done under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain. Some soreness for a few days afterwards is normal.
Will a vasectomy affect my erections or ejaculation?
No. Erections, orgasm and ejaculation feel the same. The only difference is that the semen no longer contains sperm.
How effective is a vasectomy?
More than 99% effective, once a semen analysis confirms that there is no sperm in the semen.
Can I have it done during a short trip to Istanbul?
Yes. It is a 15–20 minute procedure and you go home the same day. The follow-up semen analysis can be done in your home country.
