Although genital surgery doesn’t tend to be on the bucket list for most men, many will put a vasectomy on their to-do list at some point in the future. The reason for this is simple: to prevent unplanned pregnancies. If you’ve decided that a vasectomy is right for you, how you finance the procedure should be your next thought. Whether your medical insurance foots the bill, or you have to put your hand in your pocket, here is a guide on all things vasectomy, as well as the costs involved.
What Is a Vasectomy?
Vasectomies (otherwise known as male sterilization) are classed as a permanent birth control method. There are over 500,000 vasectomies performed in the United States every year. However, in regions like the United Kingdom, the number of men opting for a vasectomy has significantly declined. Vasectomies are regarded as a surgical procedure and when compared to the costs of a tubal ligation (female sterilization) a vasectomy is roughly five times less.
Average Costs
If you are in the US, you can expect a vasectomy to cost anywhere from $300 and $3,000. The costs of the procedure will usually cover your primary consultation, the surgical procedure, as well as anesthesia. You will also need follow-up semen analyses which are part of the cost too. Each doctor and clinic will vary in terms of costs. While one may include all of these in a vasectomy cost, others may charge individually. This means you need to inquire and do your research before choosing a doctor. Where you have your vasectomy will also reflect in the overall cost. You may find the procedure costs more if it’s conducted in an outpatient medical center rather than a doctor’s office.
Medical Insurance Coverage
For vasectomies conducted as an outpatient procedure, you’ll find most health insurance providers will foot the total bill. However, it’s always best to consult with your insurance company first so you can be confident they include vasectomy benefits. For those who don’t have a health insurance plan in place, some clinics or doctors offer sliding scale fees, although this is normally determined on your yearly income. There may be the option to get a discount on the procedure if you pay in cash so make sure you run through all payment options before making your mind up.
Reversal Costs
While many men are more than happy with their vasectomy, others decide later down the line that they would like it reversed. If you fall into this category, you can expect a vasectomy reversal to cost upwards of $15,000. What’s more, most health insurance providers won’t cover the procedure. Unlike a vasectomy that has an excellent success rate, a reversal has differing results, whether it’s to restore fertility or achieve pregnancy.
While a standard vasectomy ranges from $300 to $3,000, you must factor in other non-monetary costs along the way. Every man will have a different opinion, so before paying out for a vasectomy, you need to weigh up the pros and cons to help you make your final decision.
