How much does a vasectomy cost?

Are you and your partner discussing the big snip? A vasectomy is one of the least invasive permanent birth control methods on the market, and also the only permanent male contraceptive. But what is the cost of a vasectomy? And will your insurance policy cover the procedure?

A vasectomy, as most people know, involves cutting the tubes that lead from the testicles, called the vas deferens. The procedure can be carried out as an outpatient operation, and the recovery time is relatively short as well. A vasectomy is a highly effective contraceptive method, providing the patient who underwent the vasectomy has his post-op checkup in accordance with his doctor's recommendations. Generally, a vasectomy costs between $300 and $1000 in the United States. The female equivalent of a vasectomy, a tubal ligation, costs up to six times as much as this. Of course, the cost will vary depending on your exact location, the clinic you choose, and your insurance policy. Some insurance providers and policies do cover vasectomy costs, so this is something you may want to look into before you make the decision.

Private fertility clinics who do vasectomies may also provide loans to cover the cost (with high interest rates, so maybe not a good idea!) or offer a sliding scale fee depending on your income. Those couples who are looking into having a vasectomy and have a low income can also check whether Medicaid covers the procedure for them. These costs include the post-operation checkup. This checkup is very important, because it confirms that the vasectomy was a success and that your semen is now sperm free, or on the contrary shows that you are still fertile. In some cases, the vas deferens do reconnect themselves again after the operation, so don't miss this appointment if you do go through with your vasectomy.