No, a man who has undergone a vasectomy cannot make a woman pregnant under normal circumstances. A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra. This procedure is intended to provide permanent contraception by preventing sperm from being present in the ejaculate.

However, there are exceptions to the effectiveness of a vasectomy. In some cases, the vasectomy may not have been successful in completely blocking the vas deferens, allowing some sperm to still be present in the ejaculate. It is recommended that men who have undergone a vasectomy continue to use alternative methods of contraception until confirming the success of the procedure through follow-up tests.

Another exception is the rare occurrence of spontaneous reconnection or recanalization of the vas deferens after a vasectomy. This can result in the restoration of fertility, although it is very uncommon.

It is important to note that a vasectomy does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Safe sexual practices and the use of barrier methods, such as condoms, are still necessary to prevent the transmission of STIs.

If a couple desires to conceive after a vasectomy, they have a few options. They can undergo a vasectomy reversal procedure or consider assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), where sperm can be retrieved directly from the testicles or epididymis.

It is advisable for individuals considering a vasectomy or seeking further information about fertility options to consult with a healthcare professional or a fertility specialist to discuss their specific circumstances and available options.

They are extremely effective

The AUA explained that after a vasectomy, you still produce sperm. However, it is soaked up by your body and cannot reach the semen, meaning you won’t be able to get a woman pregnant.

“Vasectomies are one of the best forms of birth control,” said Dr. Masson.

After abstinence, vasectomies are considered the most effective method of birth control due to their long-term success rate of over 99%. In fact, only 1-2 women out of every 1,000 end up pregnant within a year of their partner receiving a vasectomy.

But you still need to be careful

“Theoretically, you could get your partner pregnant right after a vasectomy if there is still sperm upstream of where the vasectomy was,” Dr. Masson warned.

Your sperm count will decrease gradually after a vasectomy. “You should have your urologist test a sample of your semen after approximately 8 weeks or 20 ejaculations following the vasectomy to make sure it’s free of sperm,” recommended Dr. Masson.

The US National Library of Medicine (NLM) recommends preventing pregnancy by using another form of birth control until the absence of sperm has been confirmed.

It won't affect your sex life

Dr. Masson had no hesitations about identifying the biggest myth surrounding vasectomies. “You will not experience any differences in your sexual function or pleasure. You will still be able to have sex and ejaculate, and everything will feel the same.”

And that is probably a relief to men and women everywhere.

Recovery is easy

Recovery from a vasectomy is pretty easy. According to the NLM, most men return to work 2-3 days later and can resume physical activity in 3-7 days.

Recovery involves a happy pastime: sitting in front of the TV. And that might be a reason that there is a noticeable spike in the amount of vasectomies around the Super Bowl or March Madness—a trend appropriately deemed “Vas Madness” by many urologists and ESPN.

“When recovery is sitting on the couch all weekend with the TV on and a bag of frozen peas, it makes sense that many men choose to do it when they will be able to fully enjoy their TV time,” explained Dr. Masson.

It’s a brotherhood

If you’re considering a vasectomy but aren’t quite sure yet, don’t hesitate to talk to men who have had them.

Dr. Masson said, “There is a camaraderie among men who have had vasectomies, and these men are very open to talking about it. Peer-to-peer conversation is a great way to realize that vasectomies truly are a good, safe option.”

It’s the final cut...

“Vasectomies should be considered permanent,” said Dr. Masson, meaning it’s not something to get done on a whim.

“It’s very common for men and couples who never want children or don’t want any more kids to choose a vasectomy,” says Dr. Masson. “We never judge them, but we will not do the procedure until we’re positive they understand that it’s permanent.”

The Association of Reproductive Health Professionals agrees, stating that vasectomies should never be performed if there is any chance that you might want to father children in the future.

…Sort of

That being said, there are ways to reverse the procedure. “Life is dynamic. Relationships change, and desires can change with new relationships,” said Dr. Masson.

During a reversal, the AUA explained, a surgeon reconnects the pathway for sperm to get into the semen, giving you back the ability to get your partner pregnant.