Considering a vasectomy? You’re not alone.
More than half a million are performed every year. The procedure is popular because of its permanence, low failure rate, and simplicity. It’s usually done in your urologist’s office under local anesthesia.
But like any medical procedure, you probably have questions before you choose to undergo it. What’s involved? How long is the recovery? How will you feel afterwards?
Here’s what you need to know about vasectomy recovery.
What is a Vasectomy?
A vasectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used as a form of male birth control. It typically takes about 30 minutes in an outpatient setting.
During a vasectomy, the small tubes that carry sperm from the testicles, called the vas deferens, are cut or sealed to prevent sperm from mixing with semen. This simple procedure blocks the pathway for sperm, making it an effective form of permanent birth control. It does not alter hormone levels, sex drive, or overall sexual satisfaction. Once sperm tests confirm the absence of sperm, no further contraception is required.
Vasectomy is a safe and quick procedure, but the body still needs time to heal.
Read more: Thinking About a Vasectomy? What to Expect Before and After
Vasectomy Recovery: The First Day
In the days after your vasectomy, it’s important to remember that rest is key.
Keeping activity to a minimum helps reduce swelling and allows the incision to start healing properly. This will help set the stage for a smoother recovery.
To stay comfortable the first day:
- Apply cold packs. Use an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth on the surgical area for about 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Ice will help to reduce swelling and pain.
- Use over-the-counter pain relief. Take acetaminophen as directed for discomfort. Avoid blood-thinning medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen for at least two weeks after surgery since they can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Wear an athletic supporter or snug-fitting underwear. This will keep the scrotum supported and limit movement, which helps ease soreness.
- Try to remain lying down for most of the day and avoid unnecessary walking, lifting, or standing.
Following these instructions closely on the first day will help set the stage for a smoother vasectomy recovery.
Vasectomy Recovery: The First Week
Expect some mild symptoms during recovery. It’s normal to notice mild swelling, tenderness, or bruising for up to two weeks. Using supportive underwear and cold packs as needed can help. Any bruising should fade within one to two weeks.
Many men return to work one to two days after a vasectomy and feel better within a few days. The general rule is that if an activity causes pain or pulling in the surgical area, stop and rest.
It’s also best to:
- Continue to avoid exercise, sports, or heavy lifting for at least one week
- Avoid strenuous work. If your job requires heavy physical activity, ask your doctor when it’s safe to return to work.
A word of caution: Even if you start feeling normal sooner than you expected, pushing yourself too fast can slow healing. It can even increase the risk of complications. So, follow all of your doctor’s post-procedure guidance.
When to Call Your Doctor
Mild soreness, swelling, and minor bruising are normal parts of healing. But certain symptoms may signal an infection or complication that needs medical attention. Contact your doctor right away if you notice:
- Fever or chills
- Severe or worsening pain not relieved by medication
- Redness or significant tenderness at the incision site
- Increasing swelling
- A noticeable lump in the scrotum
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop after 10 to 15 minutes of pressure
- Rapid enlargement of the scrotum
- Signs of infection, like warmth or drainage
Resuming Sexual Activity After a Vasectomy
Sexual function after a vasectomy remains the same. Men can still achieve erections, experience orgasms, and ejaculate. The amount of semen may be slightly less than before, but this change is typically unnoticeable.
You can usually return to sexual activity within a few days once you’re comfortable.
But a vasectomy doesn’t work immediately. So, it’s important to use another form of birth control until your semen is confirmed to be sperm-free. Sperm may remain in the vas deferens for several weeks or even months. Your urologist will provide instructions for follow-up testing. They’ll also tell you how many ejaculations are needed to clear remaining sperm. You should only stop using other birth control methods after lab testing confirms a zero sperm count.
It’s also important to remember that a vasectomy does not protect against sexually transmitted infections or HIV. Condoms should still be used to prevent infection.
Full Vasectomy Recovery
Most men recover completely within one to two weeks. By this time, bruising and tenderness usually disappear. You should be able to resume everyday activities, including exercise and sexual activity. Most men find recovery straightforward and can soon enjoy the peace of mind that comes with reliable, long-term contraception.
Don’t let worries about vasectomy recovery delay you any further – call (541) 334-3350 to schedule an appointment today! Our expert urologists perform vasectomies for men in the greater Eugene-Springfield area.