Purpose: The history of vasectomy dates to the early 20th century, with the first successful procedure performed in the 1890s. Dr. Harry Sharp, in 1902, is often credited with its development. However, it only gained popularity as a contraceptive method in the mid-20th century. Prior to this it hid a darker history associated with eugenics and vitality. Methods: To understand this this better, we conducted a comprehensive review of the available literature that has detailed the history of vasectomy. Results: The eugenics movement, aiming to enhance the human race by eliminating undesirable genetic traits, gained momentum in the US through advocates like Albert Oschner and Harry Sharp, who promoted forced sterilization, notably through vasectomy. Indiana enacted the first mandatory sterilization law in 1907, targeting "confirmed criminals, idiots, imbeciles, and rapists." This led to a proliferation of similar laws in the US and Europe, resulting in over 6,000 involuntary sterilizations in the US between 1909 and 1924. Vasectomy gained popularity in 1923 with Eugen Steinach's "Steinach vasoligature," a one-sided vasectomy endorsed by Sigmund Freud and William Butler Yeats. Freud sought it at 67 for improved sexuality, while Yeats, at 69, credited it with reviving creativity. However, as understanding of testosterone increased, Steinach's procedure fell out of favor, impacting his reputation. Despite six Nobel Prize nominations, he died in exile in 1944. Conclusion: Vasectomy's evolution from eugenics to a common contraceptive highlights the intertwining factors of science, ethics, and societal changes, emphasizing the need for ethical awareness and scientific rigor in healthcare.