Getting a Vasectomy
What is a Vasectomy?
A vasectomy is a safe, simple, and permanent male contraceptive procedure.
Our modern non-scalpel technique uses a laser-like device to seal the tubes carrying sperm with no need for cutting or stitching. In the hands of one of our experienced doctors , a vasectomy is very straightforward. You’ll be quick to recover and back to normal activities within a few days!
Prepare with confidence: your vasectomy day guide
Your vasectomy journey with SNIP starts with simple steps to make sure you feel prepared, calm, and ready. Here’s what to expect before your procedure – because knowing what’s ahead makes all the difference.
STEP ONE: booking confirmation
You’re booked in – nice one! Once you’ve sorted your procedure booking:
- You’ll receive a confirmation email with your appointment details and everything you need to know
- A pre-visit checklist will be provided to make preparation straightforward
- We’ll send you links to our information videos – essential viewing that’ll get you up to speed
Top tip: Double-check your contact details are correct so we can send you helpful reminders leading up to your appointment.
STEP TWO: getting ready for the big day
How to prep like a pro. The day before and morning of your vasectomy:
Eat and drink normally
No fasting required! Have your usual breakfast – you’ll need the energy for strutting out of the clinic afterwards.
Shave carefully (but not too close to game day)
Shave your scrotum 2-3 days before your procedure to reduce infection risk. Important: don’t shave on the actual day of your procedure.
Choose your gear wisely
Wear relatively close-fitting underwear (or chuck on two pairs) for extra support and comfort post-procedure. Think snug, not tight.
Sort your transport
While you’ll be walking out within 30 minutes, we recommend having someone drive you home. It’s a good excuse to have a mate along for moral support.
Medication chat
Let us know about any medications you’re taking when you book. If anything needs discussing, our team will give you a bell.
Take it easy
Avoid strenuous activity on the day – save the heavy lifting for next week.
STEP THREE: what to bring on the day
- Photo ID
- Payment or insurance details (if not already arranged)
- Consent forms (if required – can be filled digitally too)
- Tight underwear for post-op support
STEP FOUR: arrival and check-in
When you rock up:
- Arrive 10 minutes early – gives you time to settle in and fill out any last bits
- Check in at reception – our friendly team will sort you out
- Bring backup if you want – partners, mates, or moral support crew are welcome
- Relax and trust the process – you’re in expert hands with our experienced team
Our staff will guide you through everything step by step. No surprises, no stress.
Nurse phone consultation
(optional but recommended)
Still got questions rattling around?
We offer pre-procedure phone consultations with our friendly nurses to:
- Walk through what to expect on the day
- Answer any last-minute questions or concerns
- Make sure you’re feeling confident about your decision
- Chat through any medical considerations
The best bit? It’s included in your one-price fee – no hidden costs, no surprises.
Funding and costs
Keeping it affordable
No Hidden Costs: Whether you have a nurse consultation or not, everything’s included in our straightforward pricing.
Low Income Assistance: You may be eligible for a fully funded vasectomy through Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ) if you’re a Community Services Card holder. We can also help with health insurance information for prior approval and claims.
Change of Heart? If you decide after your phone consultation that you’re not ready, no worries – there’s no obligation to proceed.
Feeling a bit nervous? That’s normal
You’re not alone in this. Most blokes feel a bit anxious before their procedure – it’s completely normal. Here’s what helps:
- Talk to us: Our team is here to answer questions and put your mind at ease
- Bring support: Having someone along can make a real difference
- Remember the facts: Thousands of Kiwi men choose SNIP each year with confidence
- Extra support options: If you’re feeling particularly anxious, we have additional medication options available to help you through
Need to chat? Give us a call anytime – we’re here to help you feel confident about your decision.
Quick FAQ
Can I eat before my vasectomy?
Absolutely – eat and drink as normal on the day.
Should I bring someone with me?
It’s not required, but partners or mates are welcome for support.
What if I’m really nervous?
Talk to us! We have options to help, including additional medication if needed.
How long will I be at the clinic?
You’ll be walking out within 30 minutes, feeling like a contraception hero.
Information videos – essential viewing
Grab a cuppa and get informed. Before your procedure, you’ll need to watch our information videos featuring our experienced docs. They’ll talk you through:
- Pre-procedure preparation
- What happens during your vasectomy
- Post-procedure care and recovery
Pro tip: Crack open a cold one, put your feet up, and get yourself properly prepared. Knowledge is power, and these videos will have you feeling like a vasectomy expert.
What’s Next?
Most men are genuinely surprised by how quick and simple the whole process is.
Ready to find out what happens during your procedure? Check out our guide to the vasectomy procedure itself, or if you want to look ahead, see what to expect during your recovery.
Remember: You’re taking a smart step towards permanent contraception with New Zealand’s leading vasectomy provider. Our experienced team has performed over 5,000 successful procedures – you’re in excellent hands.
Thousands of Kiwi men choose SNIP each year with confidence.
More effective than any other method of contraception, the Snip is by far the most successful male contraception option for long term birth control. In fact, vasectomies are 10 times more effective than women being sterilised and 20 times more effective than other forms of contraception.
If you’re feeling nervous or unsure, talk to us! We offer support options such as pre-procedure phone consultations to answer any last-minute questions.