It is all so different for everyone it seems.

Down our way the only way to get one done locally is via a specialist which requires a referral from a GP. That appointment took 3 months, then it was 5 months after that before DH got the operation. DH's surgeon only performs vasectomies under anaesthetic, as he has had too many men get nervous and have their testicles retract. I believe he had a feel at the appointment, one of DH's work mates went to the same surgeon and he found a lump at that appointment. He is now having that removed. So really it is not a bad thing to have a feel by the doctor.

Only cost was the initial appointment with the surgeon. If we did not go local, then there would have been a 2 hour drive, at least, to a vasectomy clinic.

DH developed an infection in one testicle afterwards and was in a lot of pain. He needed to go on antibiotics and I think that testicle may be sterile now, but hey that is not a problem for us.