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Compare Birth Control methods

Browse every side-by-side birth control comparison, or select methods from the list to compare your own combination.

Side-by-side comparison

  • Vasectomy A permanent outpatient procedure that blocks the vas deferens so sperm cannot enter the semen.
  • Second method

    Select a method using "+ Add method" above

Method
Vasectomy A permanent outpatient procedure that blocks the vas deferens so sperm cannot enter the semen.
Second method

Select a method using "+ Add method" above

EfficacyVasectomy 99.85% typical use

Most effective: over 99 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year.

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CostVasectomy $0–$1,000 Insurance: Varies—
DurationVasectomy Permanent—
ReversibilityVasectomy Permanent—
STI protectionVasectomy No—
How it worksVasectomy

A clinician cuts, seals, or blocks the vas deferens so sperm cannot mix with semen during ejaculation. The body absorbs the sperm, and the semen remains normal in appearance and volume.

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PrescriptionVasectomy Required In-Person Procedure—
Side effectsVasectomy
  • Mild pain or swelling for a few days
  • Bruising or bleeding at the site
  • Sperm granuloma (swelling from leaked sperm that usually goes away on its own)
  • Chronic post-vasectomy pain syndrome (5% in a 2020 meta-analysis)
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Who shouldn't use thisVasectomy
  • Uncertainty about future fertility desires
  • Known allergy or hypersensitivity to materials used in the procedure
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