Vasectomy & Vas Ligation: Understanding Sperm-Stopping Procedures

The vas deferens is a tube that carries sperm from the testes to the penis. It has two main functions: to transport sperm and to store sperm. There are two main ways to stop the vas deferens:

1) Vasectomy: A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that cuts and seals the vas deferens, preventing sperm from travelling through. This is a permanent method of birth control.

2) Vas deferens ligation: Vas deferens ligation is another surgical procedure that involves tying or clamping the vas deferens. Unlike a vasectomy, vas deferens ligation is not typically a permanent method of birth control. It can be reversed by reconnecting the vas deferens.

Talk to your doctor about which birth control method is right for you.