Recovery after a vasectomy.
A vasectomy is a minimally invasive urologic procedure that is finished in approximately 30 minutes. Nonetheless, it does require a recovery period after the procedure. For most men, a complete recovery from vasectomy will take from one to two weeks. Following the procedure, each patient will be given instructions to help minimize discomfort or complications.
Recovery from vasectomy the day of surgery.
Urology Austin providers have the following recommendation for recovery following a vasectomy:
- Apply cold packs to the surgical area. The patient can use a small bag of ice, or a bag of frozen peas.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be taken to address pain. Blood thinning medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen should be avoided for two weeks after surgery.
- After the surgery, patients should lie on their backs and get as much rest as possible.
- Wearing an athletic supporter or snug underwear will provide support after surgery, and may alleviate discomfort.
Recovery from vasectomy in the days following the surgery.
- Continue to rest as much as possible; only participate in light activities.
- Do not attempt any heavy lifting during the week following surgery.
- Patients may return to work one or two days after their vasectomy, depending on how they feel. Returning to activities quickly could hamper recovery. If the job requires heavy lifting, discuss this with your provider for their recommendations.
- Men can experience swelling and pain for one or two weeks after the vasectomy. In most cases, bruising should be gone in one to two weeks.
Sexual activity and recovery from vasectomy
Men can return to sexual activity within a few days of their procedure – depending on their comfort level. It is important to use an alternate form of birth control since a vasectomy is not immediately effective. Patients will receive post-operative instructions on the number of ejaculations needed to clear sperm, as well as post-operative testing. Birth control should be used until tests show that sperm levels in semen are at zero.
A vasectomy does not protect men from sexually transmitted diseases or HIV. Condoms should be used as protection from disease.
A vasectomy will not prevent the patient’s ability to become aroused. Nor will it change their current level of sex drive, orgasms, or erections. Patients will still ejaculate, although the volume may be reduced.
When to call the doctor during recovery.
Most men will experience some pain, bruising, and swelling during their recovery from vasectomy. At Urology Austin, physicians recommend that patients call the office if they notice any of the following symptoms:
- Fever.
- Severe pain.
- Redness or extreme tenderness at the incision or puncture site.
- Significant increase in the size of your scrotum.
- A lump in the scrotum.
- Bleeding at the incision or puncture site that will not stop – even after applying pressure for 10 to 15 minutes.
A vasectomy is an effective form of permanent birth control for men with a short recovery period. If you are interested in learning more about having a vasectomy, contact Urology Austin to schedule an appointment.
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