What Can You Expect After Having a Vasectomy?

Thinking about a vasectomy but unsure about what comes next? You’re not alone.

A vasectomy is a common form of permanent birth control in the U.S. In fact, more than 500,000 men choose to get one each year. However, many men are still unsure about what the procedure entails and what the recovery period is like.

By becoming familiar with what you can expect after a vasectomy, you can increase your chances of a speedy, successful recovery and get back to your regular routine sooner rather than later. This blog post is here to clear the air and provide you with all the info you need so you can make an informed decision with confidence.

The Vasectomy Recovery Process

Right after your vasectomy, you may feel some soreness and discomfort in the scrotum, abdomen, and legs. Fortunately, you can relieve it with ice packs and over-the-counter pain medications, such as Tylenol. You might also notice some mild bleeding or discharge from your puncture site. Rest assured, this is completely normal and you can apply a bandage.

While it may be tempting to resume work and your everyday responsibilities immediately after your procedure, it’s a good idea to take it easy and keep physical activity to a minimum for the first few days after your vasectomy. You may shower but should refrain from baths and swimming for at least one week. After your showers, pat dry instead of rubbing the surgical area.

Recovery timelines vary, but most men completely heal one week after surgery and are then able to resume sexual intercourse. But keep in mind that a vasectomy does not take effect right away. This means that you should use birth control until a semen analysis verifies sterility. This is typically performed 12 weeks after the vasectomy. Also, note that while a vasectomy has a 99.95% success rate, there is still a small chance of pregnancy.

When to Call a Healthcare Provider

Most vasectomies go as planned with minimal to no issues and complications. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks. If you experience increased pain, discharge, swelling, pain or burning urination, or a lump in your scrotum, you should reach out to your doctor as soon as possible. You should also contact a doctor if your stomach is so upset that you can’t drink fluids, you have pain in your calf, back of your knee, thigh, or groin, or redness or swelling in your legs.

Tips for a Healthy Recovery

Your doctor will provide you with personalized advice for a vasectomy recovery. However, these standard suggestions can lead to a smoother recovery and reduce the risk of problems down the road.

Wear Supportive Underwear

Supportive underwear that cradles your scrotum without squeezing it too much and can keep vasectomy-related pain to a minimum. It will also support the structures around the surgical site to reduce tenderness and inflammation. It’s a good idea to wear supportive underwear until you are no longer experiencing pain.

Rest, Rest, Rest

Lie down as much as you can for the initial 24 hours, and do your best to get enough sleep. You can eventually walk and increase the amount of time you walk each day to improve blood flow and prevent constipation. You should avoid vigorous physical activity such as jogging, aerobics, bicycling, and weight lifting until one week after the vasectomy.

Eat Healthy and Stay Hydrated

Stick to a nutritious, well-balanced diet to provide your body with a sound healing environment. If you have an upset stomach, eat low-fat, bland foods such as broiled chicken and toast. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water.

Follow Your Doctor’s Medication Orders

If you take prescription medications, your doctor will inform you if and when you can continue to take them again. They will also go over directions for any new medications you might need. If you receive prescription pain medication, be sure to take it as directed. Also, if you are prescribed antibiotics, you should complete the course even if you are starting to feel better within the first few days.

Contact Pacific Vasectomy Clinic For a Vasectomy Consultation Today

Knowing what to expect after your vasectomy procedure can make all the difference in your recovery. By following these guidelines and listening to your doctor’s advice, you can ensure a smoother, quicker recovery and return to your regular routine in no time. Be sure to also check out our post-vasectomy care page, where we discuss the four different stages of care.

If you have further questions about the vasectomy recovery process or are interested in scheduling the procedure at Pacific Vasectomy Clinic, we encourage you to contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you!