Vasectomy in Singapore
Vasectomy is considered one of the most effective forms of permanent contraception available to men in Singapore. If you and your partner have decided that your family is complete, a vasectomy performed by a qualified urologist is a safe and minimally invasive day surgery option for contraception.
At The Clifford Clinic and Surgery, vasectomy is performed by Dr Nathaniel Heah, a UK fellowship-trained Consultant Urologist (FAMS, Urology) with subspecialty expertise in Andrology and Men’s Health, together with Dr Law Zhi Wei, MBBS (NUS), MRCSEd.
This service page will cover what the procedure involves, who may be suitable, expected recovery time, cost and MediSave claimability.
Speak with our doctor in a private consultation to understand the procedure, recovery, cost, and whether vasectomy is suitable for your long-term family planning goals.
What is a Vasectomy?
A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that cuts, ties or blocks the vas deferens. The vas deferens, also known as the ductus deferens, are the two tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra. As a vasectomy permanently obstructs the vas deferens, ejaculation continues normally but the semen no longer contains sperm. This makes pregnancy highly unlikely once the procedure is done.
Vasectomy is considered a permanent form of male contraception. It is more than 99% effective and is regarded by The National University Hospital of Singapore (NUH) as a permanent sterilisation procedure. Thus, men considering vasectomy should treat it as a lifelong decision.
A post-vasectomy semen analysis should be done to confirmed if the procedure is successful. At The Clifford Clinic and Surgery, the post-vasectomy semen analysis is included in the clinic’s all-inclusive vasectomy package.
Why Do Men Choose Vasectomy?
Men consider vasectomy for different reasons. Some have completed their family and want a reliable long-term contraceptive option. Others want to share responsibility for contraception with their partner, especially when female contraception causes side effects or when pregnancy would carry significant medical or personal concerns.
Common reasons include:
- A couple has decided they do not want more children.
- The man wants a long-term contraceptive method that does not require daily or repeated action.
- The couple wants to avoid ongoing hormonal contraception.
- Female sterilisation may be less suitable, more invasive or medically inappropriate.
- The family wants a private, planned and permanent approach to contraception.
- The man prefers a procedure that is typically shorter and less invasive than female sterilisation.
For the right patient, vasectomy can offer peace of mind. However, it is best suited for men who are confident about their decision. It should not be chosen during a temporary stressful period, relationship conflict or uncertainty about future children.
Who Should Consider Vasectomy?
Vasectomy may be suitable for men who are certain they do not want future biological children or feel they have already completed their family. It is also an appropriate option for couples who prefer a male sterilisation procedure over a female sterilisation procedure.
It is important that patients who are considering a vasectomy make a fully informed and independent decision. Men who are uncertain about having future children, or who have medical factors that may affect suitability, should consult a medical professional before making a decision.
The doctor will explain the permanence of the procedure as well as review other factors that may affect suitability for the procedure. History of bleeding disorders, anticoagulation therapy, prior scrotal surgery, known allergy to local anaesthetics, or significant anatomical variations can affect suitability.
Book a discreet appointment to learn about your options and receive personalised medical advice.
What Happens During the Vasectomy Procedure?
The process begins with a consultation. The attending physician walks you through the procedure, risks, success rates, and the different techniques used to perform a vasectomy.
Partners of the patient are welcome to attend the consultation session, but their attendance is not required.
On the day of the procedure, the scrotal area will be numbed via local anaesthesia. General anaesthesia is also available. The doctor will access the vas deferens through a small incision, cut and seal each tube, and close the access site.
The procedure takes approximately half an hour and is performed as a day surgery procedure, meaning patients are discharged the same day with written aftercare instructions.
Techniques Used in Vasectomy
There are different vasectomy techniques. Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate option after assessment.
Conventional Vasectomy
A conventional vasectomy uses one or two small incisions to access the vas deferens. The tubes are then cut and sealed. The skin may be closed with stitches, often dissolvable.
This is a well-established method and may still be suitable in many cases.
No-Scalpel Vasectomy
A no-scalpel vasectomy uses a small puncture rather than a traditional incision. The doctor gently opens the skin to access the vas deferens, then seals the tubes.
Many patients searching for no-scalpel vasectomy Singapore are looking for a technique associated with a smaller opening, less tissue handling and potentially quicker recovery. Whether this method is suitable depends on the doctor’s assessment and the patient’s anatomy.
No-Scalpel vs Conventional Vasectomy
The Clifford Clinic offers vasectomies done via the conventional scalpel incision method and no-scalpel puncture access method. The technique that is best suited for the patient is determined during the consultation session based on anatomy and the doctor’s clinical assessment.
Both techniques achieve the same result and are performed under local or general anaesthesia as day surgery.
However, the no-scalpel approach is associated with lower rates of bleeding, haematoma and infection and faster return to normal activity as the vas is reached through a small puncture rather than a scalpel incision.
Modern methods of local anaesthesia, such as the fine mini-needle and no-needle jet techniques, makes the procedure comfortable for most men. General anaesthesia is also available where preferred or clinically indicated.
Our team can walk you through how vasectomy works, what to expect before and after the procedure, and the key questions to consider before proceeding.
Is Vasectomy Safe?
Vasectomy has a strong long-term safety record and is considered safer than female tubal sterilisation. Additionally, it has a low first-year failure rate of about 0.15% and is protective against ectopic pregnancy. It has no effect on sexual function and no proven causal link to atherosclerotic disease, immunologic disease, testicular cancer or prostate cancer.
Major complications are rare, and minor ones such as bruising or swelling are usually self-limiting. This data is reflected in guidance from the American Urological Association (AUA) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
Recovery After Vasectomy
Most patients typically recover after less than a week, with most being able to resume normal activities within a few days. Sexual activity should be avoided for approximately one week post-procedure.
Mild soreness, bruising and swelling are normal post-procedure and will improve with rest. Supportive underwear and pain relief medication used as directed by a doctor will help manage discomfort.
If you experience worsening pain, increasing swelling, fever above 38 degrees Celsius, or wound discharge, contact the clinic promptly. At The Clifford Clinic and Surgery, emergency contact details will be provided at discharge.
Post-Vasectomy Semen Analysis to Confirm Success
Vasectomy is not immediately effective and a post-vasectomy semen analysis (PVSA) is required to confirm the procedure’s success. At The Clifford Clinic, PVSA is overseen by your attending urologist while the semen sample is processed at an external accredited laboratory or andrology centre.
Below is the PVSA process.
- The first sample will be taken 12 to 16 weeks after surgery.
- To ensure clear residual sperm, an ejaculation milestone of at least 20 ejaculations before the first sample is collected must be reached.
- Abstinence should be observed 2 to 7 days before each sample is taken, meaning patients should refrain from sexual activity or masturbation.
- To facilitate sample collection a sterile container will be supplied for the patient to ejaculate into. Note: the entire ejaculate must be collected in the container for the test to be accurate.
- The sample is sent to the analysis laboratory within 50 minutes of collection if it is not collected at the analysis laboratory itself.
- If non-motile sperm are detected, a second sample will be requested 4 to 6 weeks later.
- Results will be communicated to the patient personally by the attending urologist.
Please note that contraception must continue until official clearance is confirmed via the PVSA.
Because the sample must be analysed within 50 minutes, PVSA is performed at an external accredited laboratory or andrology centre rather than being done in the clinic and dispatched by courier.
With Innoquest, the test is carried out only at their main laboratory in Ubi. Other centres that The Clifford Clinic and Surgery work with include Parkway Laboratory at Gleneagles Medical Centre, Mount Elizabeth Fertility Centre (MEFC) at The Heeren, and Sincere Andrology Lab at Novena Specialist Centre opposite Tan Tock Seng Hospital.
The cost of the PVSA is included in The Clifford Clinic’s all-inclusive vasectomy package.
Vasectomy Cost at The Clifford Clinic
The cost of a vasectomy at The Clifford Clinic ranges from $3,500 to $5,000 for the procedure and an additional $100 consultation fee. The Clifford Clinic’s vasectomy package is an all-inclusive price including anaesthesia, medications, the day surgery facility, and follow-up and post-vasectomy semen analysis. There are no separate add-on charges for any of these components.
The estimated cash out-of-pocket after accounting for MediSave is approximately $1,000. Do note that the amount may vary depending on your available MediSave balance. A dedicated billing team is available to discuss costs and financing options before you book the surgery.
All prices listed in this page are in Singapore Dollar (SGD).
Arrange a consultation to get clear guidance on your options, expected fees, claim considerations, and the right approach for your needs.
Is Vasectomy MediSave Claimable in Singapore?
Yes. The Clifford Clinic and Surgery is a MediSave / MediShield Life Scheme accredited clinic that processes MediSave claims. Vasectomy is an approved day surgery procedure under the MOH Table of Surgical Procedures (TOSP) and MediSave may be applied toward the procedure cost. This is subject to withdrawal limits and your available balance.
The estimated out-of-pocket after MediSave is approximately $1,000. Our billing team will advise on the applicable TOSP code and your personalised estimate during the consultation session.
Is Vasectomy MediShield Life or Insurance Claimable?
Vasectomy is generally not MediShield Life claimable as MediShield Life explicitly excludes contraceptive operations and their related complications.
For private insurance, The Clifford Clinic will assist patients with pre-authorisation submissions. Patients with policies from AIA, Great Eastern, NTUC Income, Cigna, Bupa and other major insurers have gone through this process with our support. Coverage varies by policy. We recommend obtaining written confirmation from your insurer before confirming the procedure date.
Can Vasectomy Be Reversed?
Vasectomy should be treated as permanent. Although reversal surgery may be possible, it is more complex than the original procedure and does not guarantee a future pregnancy.
The success of reversal may depend on factors such as how long it has been since the vasectomy, the technique used, the presence of scar tissue, sperm quality and the female partner’s fertility.
If you are unsure about future children, discuss alternatives before proceeding. Some men may also consider sperm banking before vasectomy, especially if there is even a small chance they may want biological children later.
Book a Confidential Vasectomy Consultation in Singapore
If you are considering vasectomy in Singapore, a consultation is the best place to start.
To book a $100 confidential consultation with Dr Nathaniel Heah (FAMS, Urology) or Dr Law Zhi Wei (MBBS NUS, MRCSEd), contact The Clifford Clinic at 50 Raffles Place, #01-01 Singapore Land Tower, Singapore 048623. Call (65) 6532 2400 or WhatsApp (65) 8318 6332.
Opening Hours are from Monday to Friday 10am to 8pm, Saturday 10am to 5pm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Vasectomy is performed by Dr Nathaniel Heah, FAMS (Urology), a UK fellowship-trained Consultant Urologist with subspecialty expertise in Andrology and Men's Health, and Dr Law Zhi Wei, MBBS (NUS), MRCSEd. Both doctors are SMC-registered and trained in both the conventional and no-scalpel techniques.
A vasectomy is more than 99% effective, as stated by NUH. As mentioned, success must be confirmed through post-vasectomy semen analysis at a minimum of 12 to 16 weeks post procedure. PVSA will be overseen by your urologist and the sample will be processed at an external accredited laboratory.
$3,500 to $5,000 for the procedure and an additional $100 consultation fee.
Our all-inclusive vasectomy package includes day surgery facility, anaesthesia, medications, the day surgery facility, and follow-up and post-vasectomy semen analysis.
A vasectomy does not affect sex drive, testosterone, erections or ejaculation as the vas deferens has no role in testosterone production or sexual function. This information is confirmed by both NUH and Raffles Medical.
Reversal may be possible but success rates decline over time and are not guaranteed. Vasectomy should thus always be treated as permanent
No. Vasectomy is a contraceptive procedure only. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states it does not protect against STIs such as HIV.
Only after your urologist personally confirms clearance based on your semen analysis result.
About the Doctors Performing Vasectomy at The Clifford Clinic
Vasectomy at The Clifford Clinic is performed by Dr Nathaniel Heah and assisted by Dr Law Zhi Wei. Both doctors are registered with the Singapore Medical Council.
Dr Nathaniel Heah
Dr Nathaniel Heah is a UK fellowship-trained Consultant Urologist with subspecialty expertise in Andrology, Reconstructive Urology and Endoscopic Surgery.
He completed his fellowship in Reconstructive Urology at University College London Hospital (UCLH) and is a Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore, Chapter of Urology (FAMS).
Dr Heah graduated from Monash University in 2008 and completed his specialist training in Urology in 2020. He is an executive committee member of both the Singapore Urological Association and the Society of Men’s Health Singapore, and currently serves as Visiting Consultant at Woodlands Hospital and Khoo Teck Puat Hospital.
His clinical interests include men’s health, andrology, general urology and minimally invasive urological procedures.
Dr Law Zhi Wei
Dr Law Zhi Wei is a Partner at The Clifford Clinic. He holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh (MRCSEd). He has accumulated surgical experience across KKH, SGH and CGH in specialties including Urology, General Surgery, Paediatric Surgery and Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
Dr Law also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Practical Dermatology from Cardiff University and regularly attends local and overseas medical conferences to keep current with clinical developments.
All vasectomy content on this site is medically reviewed by Dr Law Zhi Wei, MBBS (NUS), MRCSEd, and updated annually.
Medical References
The clinical information on this page is supported by the following peer-reviewed sources and clinical guidelines:
- Vasectomy: AUA Guideline. The Journal of Urology. 2012. Sharlip ID, Belker AM, Honig S, et al. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.juro.2012.09.080
- ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 208: Benefits and Risks of Sterilization. Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2019. https://doi.org/10.1097/AOG.0000000000003111
- Scalpel Versus No-Scalpel Incision for Vasectomy. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2014. Cook LA, Pun A, Gallo MF, Lopez LM, Van Vliet HA. https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD004112.pub4/full
- Vasectomy: Common Questions and Answers. American Family Physician. 2025. Arnold JJ, Villanueva D, Puntkattalee MJ. https://www.aafp.org/link_out?pmid=40961303
Medical Disclaimer
Information on this page is general and educational. It does not replace a consultation with a qualified medical professional. MediSave and insurance details are based on publicly available MOH/CPF guidelines and are subject to change. Confirm all financing details with the clinic and CPF before proceeding.
Medically reviewed by Dr Law Zhi Wei, MBBS (NUS), MRCSEd, Partner, The Clifford Clinic | Co-authored with Dr Nathaniel Heah, FAMS (Urology), Consultant Urologist | Last reviewed: June 2026 | Next review: June 2027