Vasectomy
Our urologists are experts in minimally invasive, no-scalpel vasectomy. This procedure helps you recover faster with less discomfort.
Medically reviewed on May 04, 2026.
Trained and Experienced in No-Scalpel Vasectomy
Vasectomy is a procedure that stops sperm from traveling from your testicles to your semen. During the surgery, a urologist cuts and clips or seals the vas deferens tubes that transport sperm. The surgeon also seals the inside of the tube to permanently block them from carrying Typsperm. As a form of permanent birth control, vasectomy prevents pregnancy better than most other methods.
The experienced UC Davis urology specialists are highly trained in minimally invasive vasectomy. Each of our urologic surgeons performs several vasectomies every week, using advanced techniques. We offer no-scalpel vasectomy, which is shown to have fewer complications and a faster recovery time than traditional incisions.
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Advantages of No-Scalpel Vasectomy
No-scalpel vasectomy uses a small clamp to create tiny holes in the skin of your scrotum instead of incisions. While both traditional incisional vasectomy and no-scalpel vasectomy are safe and effective procedures, the no-scalpel technique offers some advantages.
Shorter Procedure Time
No-scalpel vasectomies usually take less time to perform than standard incision procedures.
Reduced Risk of Complications
Studies show no-scalpel vasectomy has a lower risk of bleeding and infection.
Less Pain After Surgery
People who have the no-scalpel procedure report less discomfort immediately after surgery.
Shorter Recovery Time
No-scalpel vasectomy often results in a faster recovery and quicker return to sexual activity.
“Advantages of the No-Scalpel Vasectomy Technique,” American Family Physician, https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2012/0615/od1.html
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What to Expect
A vasectomy is a minor outpatient procedure, and you will go home the same day. Our urologists perform many vasectomies in our clinic using local anesthesia. You can also have the procedure in our hospital under general anesthesia, where you are asleep during surgery. General anesthesia may be an appropriate option for people with more complex anatomy or a history of severe anxiety or fainting.
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Before the Procedure
Before your vasectomy, your care team will shave and clean your scrotum. You will receive local anesthesia to numb the area, so you don’t feel pain during the procedure. If you feel anxious about surgery, your urologist may prescribe medicine to help you relax.
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During Surgery
A vas ring clamp is used to percutaneously grasp the vas along with the overlying skin, and a vas dissector is used to puncture the skin to expose the surface of the vas, dissect off peri-vasal tissue, pierce the wall of the vas, and deliver the vasal segment through the skin opening The surgeon then cuts and seals the cut ends of your vas deferens tubes, performs fascial interposition and places them back into your scrotum.
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After Surgery
Your scrotum and testicles will continue to feel numb for a few hours. Your care team will provide instructions for at-home recovery, including over-the-counter pain medicine and ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort. Most people return to work in a day or two.
What You Should Know About Vasectomy
Vasectomy is a common, safe procedure. Over 500,000 people in the United States choose vasectomy for permanent birth control each year. Before scheduling a vasectomy, it helps to understand a few key facts.
Permanent Birth Control
Vasectomy is a permanent form of contraception, but it can result in pregnancy in rare cases. The risk of pregnancy after vasectomy is about .025%.
Sexual Activity After Vasectomy
Although you can resume sex when you feel comfortable, you will not be sterile immediately after surgery. You must use another form of birth control until a semen analysis shows there are no sperm. This usually happens three months after your procedure.
Vasectomy Reversal
You should not choose this procedure if you want to have children in the future. While it is possible to reverse a vasectomy, it is not always successful.
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