A vasectomy is a form of male birth control that cuts the supply of sperm to your semen. It’s done by cutting and sealing the tubes that carry sperm. A vasectomy has a low risk of problems and can usually be performed in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia.
You will meet: members of the surgery team, anesthesia, and nursing.
Upon arrival: If you are having your procedure performed in the office then you will show up to your appointment time as scheduled.
There will be local anesthesia used and you are able to go home immediately afterward.
Discharge: The majority of patients will leave the hospital within 30-60 minutes
Requirements to leave the hospital:
-Vitals are stable
-Ability to walk and move without difficulty
If you are traveling by car, take breaks every 60-90 minutes and walk around the car to prevent the blood from pooling in the legs. An accompanied driver is reccommended.
You may shower after leaving the hospital. NO BATHING IN POOLS, BATHS OR JACUZZI for 4 weeks.
It is important to stay hydrated. Your bowels will be less active than usual so eat about half of what you normally would eat in smaller meals unitl your bowel movements are back to normal. Maintain a high fiber diet to avoid constipation. Moderate alcohol and caffeine is acceptable.
You may resume light activity the next day. No heavy lifting or extensive standing for 7-10 days.
A tempertaure up to 100.4 is normal. Take Tylenol or Ibuprofen every 6 hours as needed. If your fever is not controlled by medication, please call or go to the ER.
You can return to working out and physical exercise after 2 weeks. Note, that if you start to do a strenuous activity you may have increased blood in your urine which should resolve after rest and hydration.
If you take aspirin or a blood thinner known as an anticoagulant you should discontinue these prior to surgery (3-5 days). You can resume taking it immediately after surgery if okay with your surgeon.
You can work from home after discharge. Most patients can do at-home “office” activities for around 1-2 days. If you do strenuous work (e.g., heavy lifting) you should wait for 7-10 days from the date of surgery to return. If you travel for business, wait 1 week before returning to a busy travel schedule.
You may have blood or drainage after the procedure from the incision site. It may come and go periodically for a couple of days to weeks. Watch for signs of infection including erythema, pus or warmth and call the office or go the ER.
You can resume intercourse after 7-10 days to decrease the risk of swelling and pain. You must use a form of protection as you are not deemed sterile yet.
