Vasectomy is a surgical procedure for male permanent birth control. Unlike vasectomy, the Essure procedure is a surgery-free permanent birth control method for women that does not involve cutting or burning. Essure is the most effective* permanent birth control available. The chart below compares Essure to vasectomy.
| | Essure | Vasectomy |
| How is the procedure performed?  | Soft, flexible inserts are placed in your fallopian tubes through the natural pathways of your vagina and cervix, so no incision is necessary. Over the next three months, your body works with the Essure inserts to form a natural barrier within the fallopian tubes that prevents sperm from reaching the egg. | Vasectomy requires surgery. The scrotal area is shaved and cleaned with an antiseptic solution. An incision or puncture is made into the scrotum (the sac containing the testicles).
The vas deferens tubes, one from each testicle, are tied in two places with permanent sutures. The tubes are severed between the ties by:
Cauterization (burning or searing of the tubes) Cutting Blocking with clips or clamps If an incision is made, it is then closed with stitches. |
| Effectiveness | 99.83% at 5 years
(1.7 pregnancies per 1000 women) | 98.87% at 5 years
(11.3 pregnancies per 1000 women) |
| Can the procedure be performed in a doctor’s office? | Yes | Yes |
| Recovery time | Less than a day | 2-3 days |
| Post-procedure pain/discomfort | Cramps similar to your normal menstrual cycle Discharge | Swelling Bruising Pain in the testicles (Ice packs and/or an athletic supporter may need to be used to decrease bruising and swelling) |
| Confirmation | Yes. Essure is the only method of birth control for women that has a confirmation test three months after the procedure to confirm that the inserts are in place and the fallopian tubes are blocked. | Yes. A follow-up test is recommended three months after the vasectomy to confirm no sperm are present. Repeating the test every 10 years is recommended. |
| Procedure animation | | |