Vasectomy in Hamburg.
The full picture, before you decide.
Men considering the procedure often spend weeks or months reading up on it quietly. Here you will find reliable information and an experienced team. We speak English.
Everything you want to know about a vasectomy
In plain language, compiled by consultant urologists.
What is a vasectomy?
The vas deferens is sealed so that no sperm reach the ejaculate. For men who have completed their family planning.
Find out more →The procedure in detail
Local anaesthetic, a small opening, about 20 to 30 minutes. How the day of the procedure goes and how safe it is.
See how it works →Preparation and aftercare
What to do beforehand, what the first days afterwards look like and when the two follow-up semen analyses are due.
See the checklist →Can it be reversed?
A reversal is possible, but demanding. A vasectomy should be treated as a final decision.
More on this →Myths and facts
Testosterone, potency, prostate cancer: what the evidence says about the most common worries.
Read the fact check →Risks and side effects
Bruising, infection, ongoing discomfort: what is rare, how rare, and how to recognise it.
Read it in full →What is a vasectomy?
The principle
In a vasectomy both vas deferens are cut and sealed. These are the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra. Once they are interrupted, no sperm reach the ejaculate and fertility is permanently ended.
What does not change
Hormones, erection, orgasm and the ejaculate all stay as they are. A vasectomy only interrupts the route the sperm take. What the evidence says about the most common worries is under Myths and facts.
What happens to the sperm?
The testicles carry on producing sperm. The body breaks them down and reabsorbs them naturally, a process that goes on constantly even without a vasectomy.
Who is a vasectomy suitable for?
A vasectomy suits men who have completed their family planning. Because the procedure should be regarded as permanent, the decision deserves careful thought. A thorough consultation answers your questions beforehand and helps you weigh things up.
Source: AUA Vasectomy Guideline (2026), American Urological Association
Still have questions? We are happy to talk them through.
Book a consultation →The procedure in detail
The procedure takes place at its own appointment after the consultation, so you have plenty of time to think it over. What to do beforehand and what the days afterwards look like is under Preparation and aftercare.
Anaesthetic
A vasectomy is carried out under local anaesthetic, injected directly at the spermatic cord. You feel the needle briefly; after that the area is numb. A general anaesthetic is not needed.
How the operation works
Through a small opening in the scrotum, each vas deferens is exposed in turn. Each one is cut and a short section is removed. The ends are then cauterised, folded back and sutured. The whole procedure usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Straight afterwards
You stay in the practice briefly for observation. After that you can be picked up or drive home yourself, as long as you feel well.
Safety
A vasectomy is considered one of the safest procedures in urology. Complications such as bleeding or infection are rare. The decisive factor for reliability is how the ends of the vas deferens are sealed. That is why we do not simply cut them, but also cauterise, fold back and suture them. Which complications can occur, and how often, is under Risks and side effects.
Source: AUA Vasectomy Guideline (2026), American Urological Association
Would you like to go through the procedure with us?
Book a consultation →Preparation and aftercare
Before the procedure
- Consultation: all questions answered beforehand, in person or by video appointment
- Wet-shave the genital area the day before; no dry razor and no hair-removal cream
- On the evening before the procedure, apply the iodine solution from the practice generously to the shaved area
- Pause blood-thinning medication after discussing it with us
- Have a normal breakfast on the day and drink enough. You do not need to fast; eating keeps your circulation steady during the procedure
- Bring tight, supportive underwear (close-fitting shorts work well)
- Arrange for someone to take you home if you would prefer that
The first few days
- Cool the area regularly for the first 24–48 hours; this reduces swelling
- Take it easy physically for 2–3 days; light office work is usually possible the next day
- Painkillers: ibuprofen or paracetamol as needed. Opioids are generally not necessary
- No sport and no heavy lifting for at least a week
Sex and contraception
- Sex is usually possible again after about a week, as long as you feel comfortable
- Important: you are not infertile straight away. Sperm remain in the vas deferens
- Keep using contraception until both follow-up semen analyses come back clear
Follow-up semen analyses
Aftercare includes two follow-up semen analyses. In our practice the first is done after about 20 ejaculations and the second after about 40 in total. Only once both analyses show no sperm is the vasectomy considered successful. The practice will let you know the result. Less often, the second analysis still shows sperm. A further check then follows after about 20 more ejaculations, until the result is clear, and contraception must continue until then.
When to call us
A mild pulling sensation and slight swelling are normal in the first few days. Contact us straight away if you have a fever above 38 °C, pain that gets worse despite painkillers, severe or increasing swelling, increasing redness, pus from the wound or bleeding that does not stop. Aftercare is part of the all-inclusive package. You can reach us during the practice’s phone hours; outside them, call the on-call medical service on 116 117, or 112 in an emergency.
Source: AUA Vasectomy Guideline (2026), American Urological Association
Ready to book your consultation?
Book a consultation →Can it be reversed?
Possible in principle, but demanding
A reversal (vasovasostomy) is a microsurgical operation in which the ends of the vas deferens are stitched back together under an operating microscope. It takes considerably longer than the vasectomy itself, usually two to three hours, and is carried out under general anaesthetic.
Chances of success
Flow through the vas deferens can be restored in many cases. What matters most is how long ago the vasectomy was done. The chances are best in the first few years after the procedure and decline over time. But restored flow does not automatically mean a pregnancy: actual pregnancy rates are lower than patency rates.
Cost
A reversal is considerably more expensive than a vasectomy and is generally not covered by health insurance. The cost varies depending on the complexity and the clinic.
Alternatives
If a reversal is unsuccessful or not an option, sperm can be retrieved directly from the testicle (TESE) and used with IVF/ICSI.
Our recommendation
A vasectomy should be treated as a final decision. During the consultation we take the time to make sure you are clear about its permanence. We also discuss whether freezing sperm beforehand (cryopreservation) might make sense for you.
Questions? We will talk them through with you in person.
Book a consultation →Myths and facts
A few worries about vasectomy persist stubbornly. Here are the most common ones, and what the current evidence says.
“A vasectomy lowers your testosterone.”
The vas deferens carries sperm and nothing else. Testosterone is produced in the testicles and enters the body through the bloodstream, not through the vas deferens. A vasectomy has no effect on testosterone levels. The current AUA guideline states this explicitly.
“Potency and sexual sensation decline afterwards.”
Erection, orgasm and desire are unaffected by a vasectomy. The ejaculate looks and feels the same; only the sperm are missing, and they make up just 2–3 % of the volume. Many couples even report a more relaxed sex life, because the worry about an unplanned pregnancy is gone.
“A vasectomy raises your risk of prostate cancer.”
This question has been examined closely in large studies. There is no proven causal link, and the AUA guideline says so clearly. Prostate cancer is found slightly more often in men who have had a vasectomy, but the most likely explanation is simple: they have already seen a urologist and are examined more often afterwards. So it is detected more often, not caused more often. There is no sign of a higher risk of aggressive prostate cancer or of higher prostate cancer mortality.
“A vasectomy raises your risk of cardiovascular disease.”
There is no evidence of a link between vasectomy and cardiovascular disease. On the basis of the available data, the AUA guideline rules this risk out.
“After the vasectomy I am infertile straight away.”
No. Sperm remain in the vas deferens for a few weeks, which is why two follow-up semen analyses are part of the process, and contraception is needed until then. How that works is under Preparation and aftercare.
Sources:
AUA Vasectomy Guideline (2026), American Urological Association
AUA Vasectomy Guideline, Part I, Journal of Urology
More questions? We will take the time.
Book a consultation →Risks and side effects
A vasectomy is considered one of the safest procedures in urology. Even so, every procedure carries risks, and you should know them beforehand, not first on the consent form.
In the first days
The most common problems are bruising inside the scrotum and an infection of the small wound. Each affects roughly one to two men in a hundred, can usually be treated well and heals without lasting effects. The warning signs that mean you should contact us straight away are listed under Preparation and aftercare.
Sperm granuloma
A small, palpable lump can form where the vas deferens was cut, a reaction of the tissue to leaked sperm. It is usually harmless, may feel tender for a while and normally settles by itself.
Ongoing discomfort
In roughly one to two per cent of men, discomfort in the testicle or epididymis lasts longer than three months and noticeably affects quality of life, known as post-vasectomy pain syndrome. The causes are not fully understood; pressure in the vas deferens, scarring and nerve irritation are all discussed. In most cases it can be managed with painkillers, warmth and patience. If you still have marked discomfort after three months, please contact us directly so that we can look into the cause and discuss further options.
Pregnancy despite a vasectomy
A pregnancy after two clear follow-up semen analyses is a rarity. The guidelines put the risk at well under one per cent. That makes a vasectomy more reliable than any hormonal method under typical use, and more reliable than an IUD or condoms. When an unintended pregnancy does occur after a vasectomy, it is almost always down to something else: sex without contraception before both analyses were clear. How the checks work is under Preparation and aftercare.
What is not a risk
Testosterone, potency, prostate cancer, cardiovascular disease: for none of these is there a proven link with vasectomy. The details are under Myths and facts.
Source: AUA Vasectomy Guideline (2026), American Urological Association
Questions about the risks? We talk about them openly.
Book a consultation →Vasectomy as a shared decision
Why it concerns both of you
In many relationships contraception has long been the woman’s job: the pill, an IUD, a hormone implant. A vasectomy is one way of sharing that responsibility. For many couples it is a deliberate step that strengthens the relationship.
Finding the right moment
When is the right time? When you are both sure your family planning is complete. That may be after a second child, after a third, or in a relationship where children were never part of the plan. What matters is that the decision is made without pressure, from either side.
Come to the consultation together
You are very welcome to attend the consultation together. That way you can both ask questions, raise concerns and make an informed decision.
Legally, your partner’s consent is not required. But in our experience both of you benefit when the decision is carried jointly.
Something to forward to your partner
A short page your partner can read in a few minutes, with honest answers to the questions that often go unspoken at home. Currently available in German only.
Page for partners (in German) →Would you like to book an appointment together?
Book a consultation →One price.
Everything included.
One package: initial examination, consultation, the procedure and all follow-up semen analyses, including a further check if one is needed. In the weeks afterwards a companion app supports you, while the aftercare itself stays personal.
In Germany a vasectomy is not covered by statutory health insurance and is paid for privately. Some private insurers reimburse part of the cost; it is best to check this directly with your insurer. You will know exactly what to expect before the procedure.
- Initial examination and consultationA physical examination and an unhurried conversation, before the procedure, not on the day itself.
- The procedure, outpatient and under local anaestheticNo general anaesthetic, no hospital stay. Back to normal life within a few days.
- All follow-up semen analysesThe first after around 20 ejaculations, the second after around 40 in total, plus a further check if needed.
- Digital aftercare companionStage-by-stage tips and reminders, always on your phone.
- Sick note and employer letterIn case you need a longer recovery period.
A companion for the weeks after the procedure.
After the procedure you receive a link that you can add to your phone’s home screen. That gives you an app-like companion for the aftercare weeks, with no download and no sign-up.
Day by day it shows you what matters: what to do and what to avoid, when the two follow-up semen analyses are due and what signs mean it is worth calling the practice. A counter accompanies you up to the first and second analysis.
Sport and sex are gradually possible again. Keep using contraception; you are not sterile yet.
1 week 5 days since surgery
8 ejaculations to go until the 1st semen test
Both semen tests were clear. You have completed the entire follow-up process. From now on you no longer need contraception.
Happy with your care? We would appreciate a Google review.
Two minutes to see what matters most.
Not sure whether this is right for you? Five questions about your situation. At the end there is no score, just a personal guide to the topics worth raising at your consultation.
Anonymous; nothing is sent without your consent
Deciding as a couple? What partners should talk through first →
Urologische Praxis Eppendorf
Experienced consultant urologists in Hamburg-Eppendorf. Personal care, and time for you.
Dr. med. Christoph Schmidt-Enghusen
Studied in Hamburg and Zurich, with electives in Switzerland and the USA. Specialist training in Munich, Landshut and St. Gallen. Has worked at the Eppendorf practice since 2006, making him the longest-serving member of the team.
- Studies University of Hamburg and Zurich, state examination 1997, doctorate 2001
- Specialist training Munich, Landshut, St. Gallen; consultant since 2005, andrology since 2009
- At the practice since 2006
Dr. med. Nikola Rehmert
Studied medicine in Münster, with state examination and doctorate in 1992. Three and a half years of surgical training at Münster University Hospital, followed by specialist training in urology at Hannover Medical School. Ten years at the Marienkrankenhaus Hamburg, eight of them as senior physician. A partner at the Eppendorf practice since 2011, bringing broad hospital experience across the full range of urological conditions.
- Studies University of Münster, state examination and doctorate 1992
- Specialist training Surgery at Münster University Hospital, urology at Hannover Medical School, Marienkrankenhaus Hamburg (eight years as senior physician)
- At the practice since 2011
Dr. med. Sascha Wilken
Trained as a nurse at the Albertinen Krankenhaus Hamburg before studying medicine. Preclinical studies at Kiel University, clinical studies at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, qualifying as a doctor in 2010. Specialist training at Asklepios Klinik St. Georg, then senior physician at Asklepios Klinik Wandsbek.
- Studies Kiel University, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, medical licence 2010
- Specialist training Asklepios Klinik St. Georg, Asklepios Klinik Wandsbek (senior physician)
- At the practice since 2019
Felix Miernik
Began his career training as a paramedic. Studied medicine in Pécs (Hungary) and Rostock. Specialist training at Asklepios Klinik Wandsbek, the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf and the Martini-Klinik, one of the world’s leading prostate cancer centres.
- Studies University of Pécs (Hungary), University of Rostock
- Specialist training Asklepios Klinik Wandsbek, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martini-Klinik; consultant since 2025
- At the practice since 2026
Would you like to talk it through in person?
You speak to our practice team directly and have the appointment straight away. Our team can speak with you in English.
Wed 9–12
Fri 9–11
Fill in the appointment request on our main practice site and the team will get back to you. Possible in the evening and at weekends. The form is in German, but you are welcome to write to us in English in the message field.
Contact and directions
Urologische Praxis Eppendorf
Eppendorfer Landstr. 44
20249 Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
Legal notice (Impressum)
This is a translation provided for convenience. The legally binding version is the German original.
Information under § 5 DDG (German Digital Services Act)
Urologische Praxis Eppendorf
Joint medical practice (Berufsausübungsgemeinschaft)
Eppendorfer Landstraße 44
20249 Hamburg
Represented by
Dr. med. Christoph Schmidt-Enghusen
Dr. med. Nikola Rehmert
Dr. med. Sascha Wilken
Contact
Phone: +49 40 460 34 63
Fax: +49 40 48 72 15
Email: info@uro-eppendorf.de
Professional title
Consultant urologists (Fachärzte für Urologie)
The professional title “Facharzt für Urologie” was awarded in the Federal Republic of Germany.
Responsible medical association
Ärztekammer Hamburg (Hamburg Medical Association)
Weidestraße 122b
22083 Hamburg
www.aerztekammer-hamburg.org
Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians
Kassenärztliche Vereinigung Hamburg
Humboldtstraße 56
22083 Hamburg
www.kvhh.net
Professional regulations
The following professional regulations apply:
- Code of professional conduct of the Hamburg Medical Association (Berufsordnung der Ärztekammer Hamburg)
- Hamburg Chamber Act for the Health Professions (Hamburgisches Kammergesetz für die Heilberufe)
- Federal Medical Regulations (Bundesärzteordnung, BÄO)
These regulations can be viewed on the Hamburg Medical Association website.
Responsible for the content under § 18 (2) MStV
Felix Miernik
Eppendorfer Landstraße 44
20249 Hamburg
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Privacy policy
This is a translation provided for convenience. The legally binding version is the German original.
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The controller for data processing on this website is:
Urologische Praxis Eppendorf
Eppendorfer Landstraße 44
20249 Hamburg
Email: info@uro-eppendorf.de
Phone: +49 40 460 34 63
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You have the right to lodge a complaint about the processing of your personal data with a data protection supervisory authority. The competent authority is:
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Ludwig-Erhard-Str. 22, 7. OG
20459 Hamburg
datenschutz-hamburg.de
9. Currency of this policy
This privacy policy is currently in force. Last updated: October 2026.
As our website develops or if legal requirements change, it may become necessary to amend this privacy policy.