Why a Urologist for Your Vasectomy? | Dr. Theodore Cisu

The short answer: Most vasectomies in the US are done by urologists, doctors whose training centers on the urinary tract and the male reproductive organs. That training covers the anatomy involved, less common situations such as prior surgery or hard-to-feel tubes, the rare complications, and the semen test afterward.

Written by Theodore Cisu, MD, board-certified urologist. Based on the American Urological Association (AUA) Vasectomy Guideline (2026). Last reviewed November 2026.

Have questions about who does your vasectomy? Book a telehealth consultation with Dr. Cisu. No referral needed.

What a urologist is

A urologist is a physician who completes surgical residency training in the urinary tract (kidneys, bladder, prostate) and the male reproductive organs, including the testicles, epididymis and vas deferens. Board certification means a urologist has passed the exams of the American Board of Urology. Dr. Cisu is a board-certified urologist with Augusta Health.

Vasectomy sits squarely inside that field. It is one of the procedures urologists learn during training, and in the US most vasectomies are done by urologists. Other trained physicians also perform vasectomies. What matters most for you is that whoever does yours is trained in the procedure and can answer your questions.

Training in the anatomy involved

A vasectomy blocks the vas deferens, the small tube on each side that carries sperm. Before the procedure, the doctor finds each tube by feel through the skin of the scrotum. Day to day, a urologist examines the scrotum, testicles and surrounding structures and treats problems there, such as hydroceles, spermatoceles, epididymitis and infertility. That background helps with the exam at your consultation and with spotting anything that should be addressed first.

When anatomy is less straightforward

Most vasectomies are routine. Some are not. A tube may be hard to feel, or there may be scarring from a prior hernia repair or other surgery, a testicle that sits high, or a hydrocele. These situations usually just mean more planning, and sometimes a different setting or approach. A urologist can evaluate them and decide on the plan. Read more in Complex vasectomy: prior surgery and difficult anatomy.

Handling the rare complications

Vasectomy is very safe. According to the AUA guideline, bleeding or a collection of blood (hematoma) and infection each happen in about 1 to 2 percent of men or less, and chronic pain that affects quality of life happens in fewer than 1 percent. When problems do come up, they involve the same organs urologists treat every day. A urologist can evaluate scrotal swelling, pain or infection and manage it directly. For the full picture, read Vasectomy risks, honestly.

Following through on the semen test

A vasectomy is not finished on procedure day. About three months and about 30 ejaculations later, a semen test has to show no sperm before you can stop other birth control. Pregnancy after clearance is rare, about 1 in 2,000, and a repeat vasectomy is needed in up to about 1 percent of men. A urologist interprets the result and knows the next steps if sperm are still present. You can test at a local lab or with a mail-in kit from Fellow, which you order and pay for directly with Fellow.

Questions worth asking any doctor

Whoever you choose, it is reasonable to ask how the procedure is done, how you will be numbed, what comfort options there are and how the follow-up semen test works. You can find a list in Six questions to ask before you book a vasectomy.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a referral to see a urologist for a vasectomy?

No. You can book a vasectomy consultation with Dr. Cisu directly.

Can my family doctor do my vasectomy?

Some family physicians are trained to perform vasectomies. Ask any doctor about their training, technique and follow-up plan.

Is the consultation in person?

Usually not. The consultation is typically done by telehealth from home or work, and partners are welcome to join.

What if I have had surgery in the groin before?

Mention it at your consultation. Prior surgery can change the anatomy, and a urologist can plan around it.

Does Dr. Cisu perform vasectomy reversals?

No. Dr. Cisu does not perform vasectomy reversal, so a vasectomy should be treated as permanent.

Sources

• American Urological Association. Vasectomy: AUA Guideline (2026).

This article is for general education and isn't a substitute for medical advice. The right plan for you is something to decide together at a consultation.