In the United States, you must be at least 18 years old to have a vasectomy. However, most providers have their own minimum age policies that are based upon their clinical experience and the latest medical data. At Tri-Valley Vasectomy in Livermore, our age policy reflects a careful balance between patient autonomy and professional guidance, especially given the permanent nature of the procedure. Our policies are generally in line, and perhaps slightly more conservative than, other clinics' age policies in California.
Tri-Valley Vasectomy has two age groups we define in our age policy: Under 30 and under 25.
Age 30 and Younger Without Kids: Cryopreservation Required
We only perform vasectomies on patients who are 30 years of age or younger who do not have children if they first undergo cryopreservation (sperm banking). Even if you currently are sure you don't want children, it's better to be safe than sorry. You never know what the future will hold, and it's better to have the sperm saved and not need it than to desire to have children in the future and be unable to. Sperm banking is an affordable safeguard against any potential future changes of heart.
If you are 30 and younger and already have children, we will consider performing a vasectomy and will discuss more details during our initial no-cost consultation.
Age 25 and Younger
We do not perform vasectomies on patients under 25, as younger patients are statistically more likely to seek vasectomy reversals later in life - a complex, expensive procedure with no guaranteed success. At this young age, we don't want to take away the joy of being a parent in the future. It's simply too young of an age to make that decision.
If you are under 25 and have children, we still hesitate to perform a vasectomy unless you have a medical reason for one. Reach out to us to discuss your specific scenario.
Age Policies and Wait Times in California
Our age policy aligns with trends across the medical field, where other private clinics often set a recommended minimum age or require counseling and waiting periods to ensure patients are committed to the decision. For example, Kaiser Permanente often makes patients wait up to six months, due in part to insurance protocols and the intention of allowing patients time for reflection. This extended waiting period reflects the rising number of young men interested in the procedure, with many doctors observing that some patients later regret the choice as their circumstances or family goals change in their 40s and beyond.
We respect this waiting period, but also respect the urgency that some men feel in regard to the desire for a vasectomy. That's why our initial consultation is so crucial, to discuss your individual circumstances.
Special Cases
We do consider special cases, such as those involving genetic concerns or significant medical factors, that make future pregnancies risky or undesirable. When seeking a vasectomy at a young age, we require thorough counseling. This includes at least two consultations, often with both of our doctors, as well as thorough written and verbal communication.
It is vital to ensure patients fully understand the permanence of vasectomy and discuss options like sperm banking for future flexibility. These consults help address the distinct needs of each patient while providing ample opportunity to weigh the potential benefits of temporary contraceptives or family planning discussions with their healthcare providers.
For anyone considering a vasectomy, we encourage you to explore our resources, such as preparation for a vasectomy, types of vasectomy procedures, and the benefits of the no-scalpel, no-needle technique. On our blog, our aim is to offer valuable insights into the experience, from common myths to post-procedure expectations, and can help answer many of the questions you might have before booking a consultation.
When you’re ready to take the next step, scheduling a consultation with one of our providers will give you a one-on-one opportunity to discuss your goals, ask specific questions, and fully understand what to expect.