If you are considering or have undergone a vasectomy, it is understandable that you may have questions about how it will impact your ejaculation. A significant aspect of the vasectomy recovery period revolves around when you can resume sexual activity and ejaculation without concerns about fertility.
After a successful vasectomy, once you have completed the recommended waiting period and received clearance from your clinician, you can typically enjoy sexual activity and ejaculate without the need for additional contraceptive measures.
Until then, it is crucial to have the information you need regarding vasectomy and ejaculation. Understanding the effects of the procedure on ejaculation can help alleviate any concerns or uncertainties you may have.
FAQs
How does vasectomy affect ejaculation?
A vasectomy does not directly affect the process of ejaculation itself.
During a vasectomy, the vas deferens, which is the tube that carries sperm from the testicles to the urethra, is surgically cut, tied, or sealed. This prevents sperm from mixing with the semen.
After a vasectomy, the majority of the fluid in the ejaculate comes from the seminal vesicles and the prostate gland. These fluids still provide the necessary lubrication and nutrients for the sperm, but without the presence of sperm.
Can I still achieve an orgasm after having a vasectomy?
Patients will still be able to achieve an orgasm and ejaculate after having a vasectomy. During an orgasm, the muscles in the pelvic area contract, leading to pleasurable sensations. These contractions are not affected by a vasectomy.
However, the ejaculation will not contain sperm, resulting in a contraceptive method that is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
How soon after the vasectomy procedure should I try to have sex?
In order for the procedure site to heal, we recommend waiting 2-7 days before engaging in any sex or masturbation. However, if you feel that you need a little more time, then please wait until you are comfortable.
It is important to use another method of contraception, such as condoms, until we have confirmed that there is no sperm in your semen (i.e. at 16 weeks post-procedure).
Will ejaculating after a vasectomy cause any pain or discomfort?
Ejaculating after a vasectomy should not cause any significant pain or discomfort.
After a vasectomy, it is normal to have some temporary soreness, swelling, or tenderness at the site of the procedure. This discomfort is usually temporary and should improve as the healing progresses.
If you experience severe or persistent pain during or after ejaculation following a vasectomy, it is important to consult a clinician.
Will the colour or texture of my ejaculation change after a vasectomy?
No, the texture and colour of the semen should remain the same as before the procedure. Occasionally soon after a vasectomy procedure you may experience blood stained semen. This is not something to be concerned over and will settle with time.
Are there any complications related to ejaculation that can occur after having a vasectomy?
Typically you do not experience any complications regarding ejaculation. However, It is possible to experience pain during ejaculation soon after the procedure.
Are there any precautions I should take regarding ejaculation after a vasectomy?
It is important to use another method of contraception, such as condoms, until we have confirmed that there is no sperm in your semen (i.e. at 16 weeks post-procedure).
There are no further precautions necessary.
How soon after a vasectomy can I have unprotected sex without worrying about the presence of sperm in my ejaculation?
You will need to wait 16 weeks before sending a semen sample that will be analysed for the presence of sperm. Once we have confirmed that there are no sperms present in your semen, you will be able to have unprotected sex.
Book an appointment
Page reviewed by Dr Praveen Jayadeva
Page written by Shannon Abraham
Last reviewed date: 29 March 2023
Next review due: 29 March 2026
Whilst this content is written and reviewed by sexual health specialists, it is for general guidance only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your clinician.
References & Further Reading
- NHS: Vasectomy
- Advanced Urology Institute. Can you still have an orgasm after vasectomy?
- Clarewell Clinics: 1 No Scalpel Vasectomy UK
- NHS: Vasectomy (male sterilisation)
- Johns Hopkins Medicine: Vasectomy