What to Expect After a Vasectomy

Vasectomies are one of the most effective and safest forms of contraception. With a short recovery time and very few side effects and complications, vasectomies provide men and families with a long-term birth control option.

There are two vasectomy procedures available: traditional (scalpel) and non-scalpel (keyhole) vasectomies. While both procedures cut and tie the vas deferens, the postoperative effects are slightly different. A physician can help determine which option best fits your case.

Recovery After a Vasectomy

Traditional vasectomies present a longer and greater risk of infection compared to no-scalpel vasectomies. Following a traditional vasectomy, patients are able to return home immediately as the short procedure can be carried out in a physician’s office.

In the first few days following the surgery, it is common to experience slight swelling and bruising in the scrotum. Wearing close-fitting underwear or a jockstrap, taking over the counter pain medication, and icing the affected area can help reduce sensitivity. It is recommended that men that undergo traditional vasectomies also avoid physical labor or exercise for at least one week in order to give the suture time to heal. No-scalpel vasectomies do not produce an incision in the scrotum, and therefore provide a faster and safer healing process. No-scalpel vasectomy patients are also able to return home immediately following the procedure, and experience less pain compared to their counterparts.

Men of both vasectomy methods are normally able to participate in sexual activity a few days after the procedure is carried out. It is important to note that neither form of vasectomy provides immediate protection against pregnancy. Both traditional and no-scalpel vasectomies require semen analyses to be conducted between 6 and 12 weeks after the vas deferens have been cut. It is expected that after three months or between 15 to 20 ejaculations post-surgery, all sperm will be removed from the semen.

Vasectomies will not noticeably change the volume of ejaculatory fluids, as over 97 percent of semen is produced by the prostate and seminal vesicles. The first few ejaculations after surgery may feel slightly uncomfortable, but orgasms should soon return to the same feeling prior to the procedure. Additionally, vasectomies do not affect hormone levels, and should not negatively impact a man’s sex drive or ability to obtain an erection. Vasectomies also do not protect individuals from STDs/STIs, therefore, condoms should be used as necessary.

In the following days and weeks after a vasectomy, it is strongly suggested to contact a physician if a man has a fever over 100 degrees, blood or pus leaking from the incision, continued scrotal pain and swelling, trouble urinating, and/or a lump forming in the affected area.

Once a semen analysis has determined a man’s semen contains no sperm, a vasectomy is over 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy.

Need More Information On Vasectomies?

Here at Urology Associates of Central Missouri, our highly skilled physicians are here to provide you with the best support, information, and care. If you are interested in knowing more or want to schedule a consultation for a vasectomy, please feel free to contact our office to set up an appointment.