Vasectomies halved in ten years as abortions rise The link between vasectomy rates and the number of abortions for older women is also seen in France where relatively few vasectomies are done but abortions for older women are more common. Traditionally around 16 per cent of men under the age of 70 have undergone the procedure in England and the abortion rate for women over 30 has been relatively low. Ann Furedi, chief executive of bpas said: "Vasectomy is a safe and reliable method that gives men the opportunity to play an active role in contraception. It is disappointing that the only long term method which enables men to play this part is declining. We must ensure that all couples who want to use this method can access it promptly on the NHS, while recognising that it won't be for everyone. Creating more choice is vital. We sincerely hope that the research into creating a reversible male contraceptive that is currently underway results in a method that will have a real impact on the involvement of men in family planning. She said the emphasis on long-acting contraceptive methods for women, such as the coil and implant, may also have had an effect on vasectomy rates.