Post-Vasectomy
Semen Testing

A vasectomy is an effective permanent contraception method, but you are not immediately sterile after the procedure. Live sperm remain in the upper parts of the vas deferens and must be cleared through ejaculation. Additionally, in the first few months, the tubes may shift, potentially allowing sperm to re-enter your ejaculate if the ends reconnect.

To confirm your vasectomy’s success, you must complete a Post-Vasectomy Semen Analysis (PVSA) at least 3 months after your procedure and after a minimum of 20 ejaculations.

Important: Continue using contraception until your healthcare provider confirms you are no longer fertile.

Testing Options:

The easiest way to complete your PVSA is with SnipCheck’s convenient mail-in test. Simply order a kit, collect your sample at home, and return it using the prepaid envelope. For more details, visit www.snipcheck.com.au (fees apply).

How It Works:

Order your SnipCheck kit at www.snipcheck.com.au ($125, includes kit, lab analysis, and results). Follow the instructions to collect your sample at home and mail it back using the prepaid envelope. We’ll email your results, typically within days, and can send them to your vasectomy provider if requested. If sperm is detected, a complimentary follow-up kit is provided.

Alternatively, you can drop off your sample at a local pathology laboratory that performs PVSA. We’ll provide a sample jar during your vasectomy appointment and email you a Pathology Request Form shortly after. If you don’t receive the form or misplace it, contact us to have it resent.

• Collect your sample by masturbating into the provided jar.
• Deliver the sample and Pathology Request Form to a nearby pathology laboratory that performs PVSA as soon as possible.
• We’ll contact you with your results, usually within 48 hours.

Finding a Laboratory:

To locate a pathology laboratory (not a local collection centre), ensure they offer PVSA, seminal analysis, or semen testing. Check the laboratory’s website and filter for these services.