Vasectomy: An Opportunity for Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Vasectomy is a safe, effective, and cost-effective contraceptive method, with a failure rate lower than that of female sterilization. Nevertheless, vasectomy is underutilized-only 6% of American women rely on vasectomy. Access to vasectomy may be limited by provider advocacy and availability. Obstetricians and gynecologists can increase both the acceptability of and access to this method if adequately trained to counsel about and provide the procedure. Although some concerns may persist surrounding obstetricians and gynecologists performing a vasectomy, increasing the availability and uptake of vasectomy avoids unnecessary surgical risks for female patients and promotes reproductive justice via shared contraceptive responsibility.