Recovering from a Vasectomy: What to Expect

A vasectomy, an in-office procedure that seals your vas deferens so your sperm can’t mix with your semen when you ejaculate, is a very effective method of birth control. In fact, vasectomies offer nearly 100% security against unwanted pregnancies. 

If you’re considering a vasectomy, chances are you’re curious about what to expect during and after the procedure. Our board-certified providers at Urology Associates Medical Group in Burbank, California, understand. We specialize in minimally invasive techniques to ensure you have the most gentle vasectomy possible.

To put your mind at ease, we’ve put together this informative guide explaining more about vasectomies and what you can expect as you recover.   

Understanding a minimally invasive vasectomy 

A vasectomy is a minimally invasive, in-office surgical procedure aimed at stopping fertilization by preventing your sperm from reaching the egg. Sperm travel through tubes called vas deferens on their way from your testes to your urethra, where they combine with semen and exit your body when you ejaculate. 

During a vasectomy, we administer medication through an IV to relax you, although you may choose to skip this medication if you wish because we also numb your groin with a local anesthetic. 

Once you’re comfortable, we make a small incision in your scrotum and seal off your vas deferens. We close the incision with stitches that dissolve on their own, and the entire procedure is complete in about 20-30 minutes.      

What to expect as you recover

The good news is that you don’t need a lengthy recovery period after a vasectomy. You can expect some mild swelling and bruising, and it’s likely you’ll have some discomfort and mild pain. 

We recommend using ice or cold packs and over-the-counter pain relievers to minimize your discomfort. Wearing supportive undergarments can also minimize movement and keep you as comfortable as possible.

You should rest for about 24 hours after the procedure. After a day, most men are cleared to resume almost all normal activities and return to work. You should wait about a week before resuming sex, and by that time you should feel back to normal.  

Note that you should use a second form of birth control for about three months after your procedure because it takes time for the sperm already present in your system to leave as you ejaculate. 

We monitor your semen samples after your procedure so you’ll know when it’s safe to stop using other forms of birth control.

Things to watch out for after a vasectomy

While most vasectomies don’t create issues, there are some symptoms and signs to be aware of that may indicate you need medical attention following your procedure, including:

• A fever over 100 degrees
• Blood or pus around the incision site
• Unbearable pain 
• Extreme swelling or swelling that doesn’t resolve 

Any of these symptoms may indicate an infection, so err on the side of caution and call us if you notice one or more of them. 

Are you ready to learn more about minimally invasive vasectomies and what you can expect as you recover? Contact us at Urological Associates Medical Group in Burbank, California, to schedule an appointment today.