More young Filipino men choose vasectomy as they opt out of fatherhood

The growing interest in vasectomies can be seen nationwide.

Vasectomies are on the rise among younger men, with many opting out of fatherhood due to career concerns and economic conditions.

A recent one-day free vasectomy drive at University of the Philippines Diliman saw nearly 300 sign-ups despite allotting less than 30 slots. Participants were mostly men aged 28 to 35.

One of them was Mike (not his real name), a 28-year old engineer. He already knew as a teen that he did not want children due to growing up in a financially disadvantaged household. Mark had been saving up for a vasectomy until the opportunity for a free operation fell into his lap.

“Right now, gusto ko mag-focus on securing enough resources to support myself, my partner and a more stable future,” he told radar Lifestyle.

The growing interest in vasectomies can also be seen nationwide. The Commission on Population and Development noted a 52.85% annual increase in vasectomies in 2024. Even at the grassroots level, vasectomy programs by local governments like in Davao City are seeing a steady annual rise in clients.

While no statistics have been noted on the age of vasectomy patients, healthcare service providers note that clients are becoming younger as Gen Z’s priorities shift away from family life and toward financial stability.

“Pwedeng factor dito ‘yung mga nangyayari sa bansa natin pagdating sa ekonomiya at pulitika, pati na rin sa buong mundo,” said a representative for the University of the Philippines Center for Women’s and Gender Studies.

A vasectomy is a permanent contraceptive procedure designed for men who no longer wish to have biological children. After the procedure, men can still ejaculate but will no longer produce semen, preventing pregnancy.

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