After numbing the scrotum and making one or two small openings in it, the surgeon cuts each vas deferens (possibly removing a small section of it as well). He or she will then close one or both cut ends of the tubes with stitches or other techniques, and, if needed, close the opening(s) in the scrotum with stitches. The "no-scalpel vasectomy" technique relies on small puncture holes made in the scrotum that do not need stitches.

The surgery usually takes no more than 30 minutes, after which time almost all men go home the same day. In most cases, recovery takes less than a week.

Although some men have been able to have their vasectomies reversed (undone), this process involves expensive, major surgery, and success cannot be guaranteed. Therefore a vasectomy is considered appropriate for those who desire a permanent form of birth control.

It is also important to remember that vasectomy does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, such as HIV/AIDS. Men who have had vasectomy should still practice safe sex to avoid STDs.

It is important to have your semen tested by your health care provider to make sure there are no sperm left before having unprotected sex.

• Vasectomy Safety