Vasectomy: AUA Guideline (2026) Part I

Abstract

Purpose: This Guideline provides a contemporary overview of vasectomy, including a discussion of indications, pre-operative counseling and preparation, peri-operative considerations, procedural techniques, potential risks and complications, and post-operative care to ensure that healthcare providers offer accurate, evidence-based information to patients considering this method of permanent contraception. Options for future fertility following vasectomy are discussed in Part II of this Guideline series.

Materials and methodology: A comprehensive search of the literature was performed and covered articles published between January 1, 1990 and January 30, 2024. Relevant study designs included randomized controlled trials, controlled clinical trials, and observational studies (cohort with and without comparison group, case-control). Systematic reviews were searched for as an additional resource to identify any relevant studies with the designs noted above that may not have been captured in the literature search.

Results: The Panel developed evidence- and consensus-based statements based on a comprehensive systematic review of the literature. Recommendations on vasectomy are detailed herein.

Conclusions: While this Guideline provides a summary of the current evidence related to vasectomy, future review will be required as knowledge in this space continues to evolve. The unabridged version of this Guideline is available at auanet.org.

Keywords: guideline; male contraception; reproductive; sterilization; vas deferens; vasectomy.