Vasectomy post-operative advice

Vasectomy services post operative advice and common problems

1. Rest, keeping your legs raised for as long as possible during the first 24 hours.
2. Do not shower for 24 hours.
3. Ice packs/ frozen peas on the genital area can be helpful in reducing swelling (do not apply directly to the skin e.g. wrap in a tea towel).
4. Use good supporting underwear or cycle shorts etc. (not boxers) for 2-3 days.
5. Use simple painkillers or an anti-inflammatory such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen as long as there is not a medical reason why you cannot take them.
6. Bathing (with a cupful of salt in the water) can be started 3 days following the procedure. This keeps the area clean, aids healing and helps dissolve the stitches.
7. Most men will be fit to return to work within 2-3 days after their vasectomy. Avoid sport and heavy lifting for at least two weeks after the operation. Sex and or ejaculation can be resumed again after 7 days.
8. Frequent ejaculations (at least 2 per week) are necessary to clear the tubes of old sperm. It is not uncommon to notice some blood in the urine or seminal fluid for the first 1-2 weeks following your vasectomy. If this persists, please see your GP.
9. If skin stitches are used, and are still present 3 weeks after the procedure, they can be easily removed by the practice/treatment room nurse at your GP practice.
10. If you have not received a letter with your results 3 weeks after handing in your semen sample, please contact our department for advice.

Common problems after a vasectomy

1. Bruising – this is very common. It can be dark in colour and can appear away from the wound site. It may get worse in the first few days after the procedure but should self resolve within a few weeks
2. Swelling – occurs in almost everyone. Resting, icepacks and snug fitting underwear can help.
3. If there is bleeding from the wound, press gently for 5-10 minutes.
4. Haematoma (there is a 1% risk of this occurring) – this is when bleeding collects and forms a lump. If the swelling is very large then immediate medical attention should be sought.
5. Infection – If the wound continues to ooze after a few days or there is an increase of redness and/or pain around the wound, an infection may have occurred. This can be easily treated with antibiotics. Your GP can be contacted for treatment.
6. Some men have pain that may last for months after the operation. Continued use of supporting underwear and anti-inflammatory drugs can help until it settles.

If you have any concerns following your operation please contact your GP practice for advice
 

Further advice

https://www.nhsfife.org/services/all-services/sexual-health/contraception/vasectomy/

Vasectomy Appointment Enquiries:
01592 729476/729254 (9.00-1.00pm Monday-
Friday)