With vasectomy numbers plummeting over 60% in the last decade, sexual health charity Marie Stopes UK is launching an awareness campaign to debunk the myths.

Vasectomy is one of the most effective, permanent forms of contraception on earth, yet the snip has gone out of fashion with the number of men in England opting for a vasectomy falling from nearly 38,000 vasectomies in 2001 to just over 14,000 in 2013.

Yet many men want the opportunity to plan the number of children they have and to share responsibility for contraception with their partner so Marie Stopes UK has launched Come Inside to answer the embarrassing questions and show how far vasectomies have come from the 'snip' of old.

For instance, did you know?

  • Vasectomy is more than 99% effective.
  • A no-scalpel technique means there is no longer any need for stitches.
  • You can start having sex as soon as it feels comfortable.
  • The procedure is over in less than 15 minutes and you can be back at work in one or two days.
  • Having a vasectomy does not affect your hormones, erection or orgasm.
  • There's no noticeable change in what your semen looks like, smells like, or even tastes like.
  • It is the safest permanent contraception method on earth.

Marie Stopes UK's chief nurse Jason Warriner says:

"We have a million and one names for them, from nuts to knackers, plums to spuds and goolies to gonads. Yet despite this host of terms, men aren't renowned for their ability to talk about what goes on down there. So when it comes to vasectomy, asking for advice and facts can seem a terrifying task but it takes two to tango so it is only fair that couples share the responsibility for contraception.

"Plus the benefits are enormous. For a start having a vasectomy can also actually improve your sex life because of the peace of mind it brings. Just imagine you can do it whenever you like without worrying about an unwanted pregnancy."

Men or women who have completed their family and want to know more can call 0345 300 0212 to speak confidentially to a trained advisor or visit the 'Come Inside' website at: www.vasectomy.org.uk.