A vasectomy is a simple sterilization procedure that can be performed right your doctor's office, so it tends to cost less than other surgeries. Over the long term, a vasectomy may even be less expensive than other birth-control options such as the Pill or IUDs. See our cost-comparison chart.
"Most urologists have contracts with the various insurance companies and the cost is determined by that," according to Dr. John C. McHugh, a urologist in Gainsville, Georgia. "Most commonly the expense is between $750 and -$1,200," he adds.
Dr. Neil H. Baum a urologist in New Orleans, puts the estimated cost at around $700 to $1,000. "Most fees cover the initial visit, the procedure, and the follow-up semen examinations. Be sure to ask the doctor or the office what is included in the fee as you don't want any surprises," he advises.
Does insurance cover a vasectomy?
Most health insurance policies cover the cost of a vasectomy, so contact your insurance company and to discuss your coverage. In such cases, your insurance will pay the majority of the associated vasectomy costs. Your exact out-of-pocket cost will depend on your plan's:
- Co-payment - a flat fee paid at each doctor's visit (such as $25)
- Deductible - a fixed amount that you have to pay before your health insurance policy covers the costs of a visit or procedure
- Coinsurance - the percentage of the doctor's fees that you are required to pay (such as 20 percent).
Also, vasectomies are often a qualified health savings account (HSA) expense. If your insurance plan won't pay for the procedure and you contribute to an HSA, you may be able to get reimbursed that way.
How much does a vasectomy cost without insurance?
"It should cost the same amount it would be if you had insurance," according to Dr. McHugh. "If the price given far exceeds this, in my humble opinion, you should shop around for a fairer 'self-pay' price," he says.
If you don't have health insurance, a vasectomy can require a significant up-front payment. Some options can help make that more affordable, including:
- Discount for paying in cash - Making the payment in cash is the next best option if you don't have insurance coverage for a vasectomy. Even if you create a particular savings program in your household budget, it should not take long to put aside the total amount needed. A full cash-payment in advance may earn a small discount.
- State assistance - Many states offer this to men who lack funds to pay for the procedure. Ask your doctor whether there are programs that may apply to you.
Some physicians bundle the cost of a vasectomy into one overall price, while others list them separately. (Price bundles can include initial consultation, anesthesia, follow-up appointment, and semen analysis.) If you're paying out of pocket, get precise estimates on each of those items, or a list of everything that the bundled price includes.
How does the cost of a vasectomy compare to that of tubal ligation?
The sterilization procedure for men is significantly less expensive than female sterilization, a procedure known as tubal ligation. Tubal ligation can be four to six times more costly and is a longer, more invasive, and more complex procedure that requires general anesthesia and must be performed in a hospital or surgery center.
Is there a way to have a vasectomy done for free?
There may be programs in your area that provide low-cost or no-cost vasectomies. "A good starting point is your local health department," according to Dr. McHugh. "If they don't offer it, they may be able to recommend a clinic in a nearby community."
"Vasectomy is a much more straightforward, minor procedure when compared to a tubal ligation. Medical insurance, including most private plans as well as state-run programs like Medicare and Medicaid, will cover a vasectomy because it is more cost-effective than the cost of most birth controls and other sterilization procedures, and is clearly less expensive than the prenatal, delivery and postnatal cost associated with having a baby," according to the good doctors at Chesapeake Urology in Maryland.
"Depending upon the state you live in, and the regulations, laws, and programs available, there may be programs that will provide low-cost or free vasectomy procedures. Planned Parenthood is a program that has assistance for sterilization and birth control, and it would be a good place to start your inquiry," they add.
Find a vasectomy specialist near you!
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Additional reading
What to Expect After a Vasectomy
