Already there are a range of members’ experiences and opinions about vasectomy, which is well explained here ( http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/contrac...ilisation.aspx ). It’s available as an NHS procedure in most cases ( perhaps on a waiting list ) but may also be done privately. In the Philippines it may be available in public hospitals or a few private hospitals / medical centres (http://www.health-tourism.com/vasectomy/philippines/ ).

It might be helpful to highlight a few facts :-
• Although the tubes carrying sperm from the testes to the penis are cut, blocked or sealed permanently in almost all cases, sperm continue to be produced. This is unlike any other glands in the body ( where blockage of their ducts stops production of the hormone or other substance ). The sperm are “ absorbed “ ( destroyed in the testicles ).

• The ejaculate ( semen ) is about the same volume as before, but with no sperm. It does take up to 20 ejaculations, and 12 weeks before the semen is free of sperm. Semen samples must be tested by microscopic examination in the laboratory ( part of my work ) until no sperm are seen.


• Vasectomy doesn’t affect male hormone levels or sexual pleasure, or the risk of sexually-transmitted diseases, but the inability to father more children can have emotional effects.

• The various possible procedures to carry out vasectomy are generally safe, both short-term and long-term ( no increased risk of cancer / heart disease ).


• Reversal IS possible while not easy, but expensive and not usually available on the NHS. ( Rarely the tubes may reconnect as a result of new channels forming naturally. As sperm are still being formed they may once more be present in semen ).


• Counselling is ESSENTIAL before vasectomy. It may be informed discussion ( as here on the forum ) and also formal, not only for the man but also his partner. This is because there ARE other methods of “ family planning “ including female sterilisation.

• Informed consent is vital. It’s not for me to make judgements about the need or type of sterilisation – but ideally ANY man who is likely to regret having had a vasectomy will be identified - either informally or during counselling and examination before any procedure. Clearly some men may later regret their decision … through changed circumstances unforeseen at the time of the procedure. They also need support and of course consideration for reversal.