What is a vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a surgical procedure designed specifically for male sterilization, involving the cutting and sealing of the vas deferens, the tubes that transport sperm from the testicles to the urethra. By interrupting this pathway, sperm cannot mix with semen and be ejaculated, effectively preventing pregnancy. This method is a permanent form of contraception and is considered one of the more reliable options for men looking to avoid fathering children in the future.

The other options refer to different medical procedures and methods of sterilization that do not pertain to the vasectomy. For instance, the removal of the uterus relates to a hysterectomy, and birth control pills are hormonal methods used to prevent ovulation in females. Female sterilization techniques differ from a vasectomy in that they involve procedures designed specifically for women, such as tubal ligation, which prevents eggs from traveling to the uterus.