It has been 8 weeks since my vasectomy and probably less than 10 ejaculations. Is it possible I could already be sterile?

Answers from doctors (5)


More About Doctor John C. McHugh, MD

Published on Aug 27, 2017

It is possible but not probable. It normally takes approximately 30 ejaculations to achieve sterility. Sterility is a function more of the number of ejaculations than the time since vasectomy.

Answered by John C. McHugh, MD (View Profile)

It is possible but not probable. It normally takes approximately 30 ejaculations to achieve sterility. Sterility is a function more of the number of ejaculations than the time since vasectomy.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Steven K. Sterzer, MD

Published on Aug 27, 2017

It's possible, but don't guess. Get a follow-up semen check to be certain.

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Answered by Steven K. Sterzer, MD

It's possible, but don't guess. Get a follow-up semen check to be certain.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Robert G. Pugach, M.D.

Published on Aug 26, 2017

Yes but you cannot be sure. I typically tell patients it takes 15 to 20 ejaculations or 8 weeks before your sperm count could be 0. The reason for the 8 week figure is that many sperm degrade in an 8 week period. However, do not assume your count is at 0 at 8 weeks. You must have a semen sample examined before you can have unprotected intercourse.

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Answered by Robert G. Pugach, M.D.

Yes but you cannot be sure. I typically tell patients it takes 15 to 20 ejaculations or 8 weeks before your sperm count could be 0. The reason for the 8 week figure is that many sperm degrade in an 8 week period. However, do not assume your count is at 0 at 8 weeks. You must have a semen sample examined before you can have unprotected intercourse.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Amin S. Herati, M.D.

Published on Aug 26, 2017

It's possible, but the only way to know is to have a semen analysis as sperm can remain in the ejaculate for 3-6 months after a vasectomy.

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Answered by Amin S. Herati, M.D.

It's possible, but the only way to know is to have a semen analysis as sperm can remain in the ejaculate for 3-6 months after a vasectomy.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Ranjith Ramasamy M.D.

Published on Aug 25, 2017

It could be possible but you cannot be certain unless you get a semen analysis that demonstrates no sperm or very few non-motile sperm.

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Answered by Ranjith Ramasamy M.D.

It could be possible but you cannot be certain unless you get a semen analysis that demonstrates no sperm or very few non-motile sperm.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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