The majority of men undergoing vasectomy are satisfied ten years after the procedure

187 men who sought information about sterilization in a hospital during 1977-80 were sent a questionnaire containing 27 questions about the procedure and its consequences. 163 (87%) men responded but 9 forms were filled out incompletely. The average age was 38.9 +or- 5.9 years. They averaged 2.4 children. 143 were married 7 were single and 5 were divorced. 1/2 of them discussed the sterilization with their partner and 12% stated that the partner raised the issue. Most were satisfied with the information received prior to the operation from the hospital. 18 men (11%) never undertook the operation. The average wait for the procedure was 4 months. About 1/4 thought the surgery was worse than expected and another 1/4 experienced postoperative effects such as swelling bleeding painful ejaculation and inflammation. 60% of them stated that their sex life was unchanged 36% said it had improved and 4% reported that it had deteriorated. 97% were satisfied with the operation and 87% declared they would recommend it to a friend. 91% never regretted the procedure while 7% reflected on whether it could have been undone. Only 1 person considered going to a doctor to discuss a reversal operation. The social situation of 13% of the cases had changed as 10% lived together with a new partner and 3% lived alone. This indicates the importance of providing information to the patient alone in a neutral setting for reflection. The 11% rate of avoidance of the operation was higher than reported elsewhere. The complication rate calls for experienced surgeons to carry out an otherwise simple operation.