Bit of a delicate one this.... *ahem* If one was going to get "the snip", would it be advised to get it done in the UK before going to Canada? I understand it is covered by the NHS in the UK (i.e. Free), how do things stand in Canada?

Personally, I'm not ready just yet, but thought I'd ask the question anyway

I can't say I know anything about the procedure itself but a mate of mine had it reversed. You don't want to do that.

I reversed into something once. Wouldn't want to do that again!

Lets hope things 'do stand' afterwards.

It's covered by all provincial plans. Scalpel free - ten mins in and out. Works a treat, which is a good job as I have five kids now.

Presumably you mean it was done after the 5 kids to stop having more - otherwise it's a bit rubbish!

Wherever you have it done, make sure they do at least one annual sperm test after surgery. I was given the all clear after two negative tests but the annual test came back positive!

Had to have the snip done again as it had reversed itself on one side. Unusual but not an isolated incidence I was told.

Scalpel free How is it done then? Mmmm, collecting info for unsuspecting Mr Y

A stiff drink and a couple of bricks.

Scalpel free procedure:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVDMG...elated&search=

I had mine done in Ontario in 2001. I just went to my GP and asked for one. He referred me to a specialist. I had a two minute consultation with him and then fixed a date with his secretary a few weeks down the line. Come the day it was a doddle. Waiting room to pub in 45 minutes. Mine was done with a scalpel but it didn't hurt (OK, the needle going into the nuts is a little uncomfortable). I may have been one of the lucky ones but all I had afterwards was some slight swelling and a dull ache for a couple of days. I didn't need the Tylenol 3s I was prescribed. It was a bit naughty of me not to go back for testing but the op seems to have worked. Not that it matters anymore.

Oh, the province paid for it (apart from the pain killers and frozen peas).

I once watched it being done Wasn't being vindictive and wanting to see someone else in some form of discomfort or anything, just curious that's all.

If anyone goes for their medicals at the Horsham surgery (Sussex), you'll meet a lovely GP who did his own!! He has the newspaper article to prove it!!

And if you did want to do it before you go, he will do it 'for free' but invites a donation of about £250 which he gives to his local favourite charity - newspaper articles also available ...

Seriously though, he was super guy and this is one his specialities !!

Waiting times in the UK are typically 6-12 months after you've asked the doctor for a referral, so depending on your time-scale that might be too far off. Then add on three months for the post-op sperm tests. The alternative is to go private:

http://www.mariestopes.org.uk/uk/vasectomy.htm

charge a couple of hundred quid I think but do you a lot more quickly.

I'm thinking a life of celibacy might be a better option!