A Permanent Birth Control Option for Men
A vasectomy is a safe, highly effective form of permanent birth control for men who are confident they do not want future biological children. The procedure works by blocking the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm, so sperm no longer mixes with semen during ejaculation.
After follow-up semen testing confirms no sperm are present, a vasectomy is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. It is not effective immediately, so another form of contraception is needed until your urologist confirms the procedure was successful.
At CLS Health, our urologists offer vasectomy consultations in Houston and can help you understand your options, including traditional and no-scalpel techniques, recovery expectations, and when you can safely stop using other contraception.
Types of Vasectomies

Traditional Vasectomy
This method involves a small incision made in the scrotum to access the vas deferens, which are then cut and sealed. After follow-up semen testing confirms no sperm are present, vasectomy is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. The recovery time is minimal, typically requiring just a few days of rest and avoidance of strenuous activities.
No-Scalpel Vasectomy
The no-cut vasectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that eliminates the need for an incision. Instead, a small puncture is made to access the vas deferens, which reduces the potential for complications and discomfort.
This method also offers a quicker recovery time and is generally less painful compared to the traditional approach.
What Happens During a Vasectomy?
Understanding what happens during the procedure can help ease any anxieties and prepare you for the experience. Here is a step-by-step overview of what typically occurs during a vasectomy:
Before the vasectomy, you will have a consultation with your CLS Health urologist to discuss the procedure, its risks, benefits, and any questions you may have. On the day of the procedure, you will be advised to shave the scrotal area and thoroughly clean it.
The procedure begins with the administration of a local anesthetic to numb the scrotum, as this ensures that you remain awake but free of pain during the vasectomy. You may feel a brief sting or pinch as the anesthetic is injected.
There are two common methods for performing a vasectomy:
- Traditional Method: The surgeon makes one or two small incisions in the scrotum to access the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra.
- No-Scalpel Method: The surgeon makes a tiny puncture hole in the scrotum using a special instrument. This method tends to cause less bleeding and fewer complications than the traditional method.
Once the vas deferens are accessed, the surgeon will:
- Cut each tube.
- Seal the ends using the technique your urologist recommends, which may include tying, clips, or cautery.
- In some cases, a small section of the vas deferens may be removed.
This process prevents sperm from mixing with the semen that is ejaculated, thereby preventing pregnancy.
For the traditional method, the small incisions are usually closed with dissolvable stitches. In the no-scalpel method, the puncture hole is so small that it typically heals without the need for stitches.
After the vasectomy, you will be given post-procedure care instructions, which typically include:
- Rest and take it easy for the next few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help manage mild discomfort if approved by your provider.
- Apply ice packs to the scrotal area to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Wear snug underwear or a jockstrap to provide support and minimize movement of the scrotum.
When Is a Vasectomy Effective?
A vasectomy does not prevent pregnancy immediately. Sperm can remain in the reproductive tract for several weeks after the procedure. You should continue using another form of contraception until your follow-up semen analysis confirms that no sperm are present.
Your urologist will let you know when to complete semen testing and when it is safe to stop using other birth control.
Schedule a Vasectomy Consultation in Houston
If you’re considering permanent birth control, a CLS Health urologist can help you understand the procedure, recovery timeline, no-scalpel options, and follow-up semen testing.
Schedule a vasectomy consultation in Houston today to discuss whether this option is right for your long-term family planning goals.
Book with Dr. Dhir
Urology
FAQs
A good candidate for vasectomy is a man who is confident he does not want future biological children and wants a reliable, permanent form of birth control. Your urologist will review your health history, answer questions, and help you decide whether the procedure aligns with your long-term family planning goals.
A vasectomy is performed with local anesthesia to numb the area. Most men feel pressure, tugging, or brief discomfort rather than significant pain. Mild soreness, swelling, or bruising can occur afterward and usually improves within a few days.
Learn about no-cut vasectomy and how it compares with a traditional vasectomy.
Most men return to light activities within a few days and normal routines within about a week. You may be asked to avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and sexual activity for about 7 to 10 days, or as directed by your urologist.
Short-term side effects may include mild swelling, bruising, soreness, or tenderness. These usually improve within a few days to weeks. Long-term complications are uncommon, but a small number of men may experience persistent discomfort or post-vasectomy pain syndrome. Contact your urologist if pain worsens or does not improve.
No. A vasectomy does not cause erectile dysfunction and does not affect testosterone levels, sex drive, orgasm, or the ability to get or maintain an erection. It only prevents sperm from being present in semen.
Vasectomy reversal may be possible, but it is more complex than the original procedure and is not always successful. Because reversal success can decrease over time, vasectomy should be considered permanent.
You should continue using another form of contraception until a semen analysis confirms that no sperm are present. This test is usually done several weeks to a few months after the procedure. Your urologist will tell you when to complete testing and when it is safe to stop other birth control.
The cost of a vasectomy in Houston can vary, generally ranging from $400 to $1,200. CLS Health urology clinics accept Medicare, as well as most major insurance plans. Many insurance plans cover the cost of the procedure, but it’s advisable to check with your insurance provider for specific details about coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses you may incur.





