Experiences of no scalpel vasectomy acceptors in a tertiary national maternity hospital in the Philippines: A pilot study
Richelle Hernandez Fabros, Lovely Santos SanedrinBACKGROUND:
No-scalpel vasectomy (NSV) is a permanent family planning method that enables the male partner to take a more proactive role in family planning. At present, studies on NSV are still few, particularly those conducted locally. Having a deeper understanding of the characteristics and experiences of clients who underwent the procedure would help refine family planning institutional programs and execute policies.
OBJECTIVES:
To present the experience of participants and acceptors who had NSV at the Advanced Comprehensive Family Planning Services, Research and Training Center of Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital. Sociodemographic profiles were also determined.
METHODS:
The study utilized a single-center, descriptive series serving as a pilot study, which included four participants who were acceptors to undergo NSV at the abovementioned center from October 2025 to December 2025. A follow-up visit was scheduled 1 week after the procedure. During the visit, clients were interviewed regarding their postoperative experiences.
RESULTS:
The pilot study reports four participants who underwent NSV. The characteristics of the participants were as follows: age range 35–44 years old, all married, 3 having 7 years and beyond relationship with their current partners, who are all housewives, with 3–4 children, with their youngest aged 0–2 years old. Two were Roman Catholic, completed at least high school level or finished vocational training, were self-employed, and belonged to the poor-income class. All have knowledge on NSV prior to the procedure, coming from a family member. Two perceived mild pain prior to the procedure. All experienced mild pain 1 week postoperative at rest and 3 on activity, respectively. Two took pain reliever until day 1, while the remaining 2 took pain reliever until day 2 postoperatively. For the resumption of sexual activity, 2 participants had sexual contact immediately postoperatively up to day 3 with no change in libido and sexual performance. However, 1 participant reported a deterioration in libido and sexual performance. Three of the participants rated an excellent overall experience with no regrets and complications.
CONCLUSION:
Based on this pilot study with of four participants, the procedure is considered safe with tolerable postoperative pain. NSV offers an alternative option for couples who want a permanent sterilization for those who have reached their desired family size. Further research to involve more cases and longer follow-up periods is recommended to assess the severity of possible long-term effects on sexual behavior. This study can help raise awareness on NSV as an alternative option for permanent sterilization, providing involvement of the male population.