Vasectomy

 

The decision to proceed with a vasectomy is a very personal one. So it is important that you have a clear understanding of what a vasectomy is and what it is not. The following will provide you with information that will assist you in deciding whether or not a vasectomy is an appropriate form of contraception for you.

 

Understanding the Anatomy:

The testicles, or testes, are the sperm and testosterone producing organs. They are located in a sac at the base of the penis called the scrotum. Each testicle is connected to a small, coiled tube called the epididymis, where sperm are stored for as long as 6 weeks while they mature. The epididymes are connected to the prostate gland by a pair of tubes called the vas deferens. The vas deferens are part of a larger bundle of tissue, blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic channels called the spermatic cord. During ejaculation, seminal fluid produced by the prostate gland mixes with sperm from the testes to form semen, which is ejaculated from the penis.

 

Prior to the Procedure:

     • Clean and shave your scrotal area.

     • Avoid taking anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen or Aspirin.

     • Wear loose-fitting underwear to your vasectomy appointment.

     • Bring someone to drive you home after surgery.

     • Arrange to take the day off of work.

 

 

After Surgery:

In the first 48 hours following surgery you should not lift heavy objects or strain. No sexual activity for 5-7 days. Add ice packs to the groin area for the first 12-24 hours after your procedure.  Wearing a scrotal supporter day and night for approximately one week may help keep discomfort to a minimum.

 

While submerging the area in water and vigorours scrubbing should be avoided, you may shower the say following the procedure.

 

Most patients can expect to recover completely in less than a week and many are able to return to their job as early as a day after the procedure. Sexual activity can usually be resumed within a week following a vasectomy. However, it is important that all patients recognize that a vasectomy, even though successful, is not effective immediately. The effectiveness of the vasectomy must be proven by having the patient submit at least one semen analysis, which demonstates that there are no sperm in the ejaculate.

 

After your urologist tells you you are sterile, you no longer need to use any form of birth control. However, a vasectomy does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

 

Post-Operative Instructions:

• Keep the operative area dry and covered for the first day. Apply an ice pack for the first 24 hours.

• Wear scrotal support for the first week.

• Starting tomorrow, you should take (2) hot sitz baths a day for the first week.

• No intercourse for one week.

• Usually, you can plan to return to normal activity after the first day, but make sure to avoid heavy lifting for one week if possible.

• You will need to use other methods of contraception until cleared by semen analysis

 

When to Call Our Office

Call our office if you experience any of the following:

• Increasing pain or swelling in your scrotum

• Fever or chills

• Increasing redness or drainage of the incision

• Trouble urinating