Overview
Vasectomy is a surgical procedure that makes a man sterile. The fluid that ejaculates from the penis is typically filled with sperm and semen. The procedure stops the flow of sperm and prevents it from coming into contact with the semen.
Traditionally, vasectomies were performed by making two small incisions in the scrotum. However, over the past few decades, a less invasive approach has become popular. It results in less bleeding and faster recovery while being just as effective compared to a traditional vasectomy. It also results in 5x fewer infections and hematomas.
What To Expect
You will not be able to take NSAIDs for 48 hours prior to the procedure. It is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. You will be asked to trim the hair on and around your scrotum.
A local anesthetic will be applied to the scrotum. You may be given medication to feel more comfortable. The doctor will feel the scrotum through the skin and locate the vas deferens. Once located, they will clamp it from the outside. A needle is used to make a small hole in the scrotum. The vas deferens is pulled out through the hole, cut, the ends are sealed, and it is placed back into its normal position.
Recovery
You will be prescribed painkillers, usually Tylenol or ibuprofen. The holes from the procedure do not require stitches and heal on their own. There will be a small amount of oozing or bleeding that will stop within the first 24 hours; you will need to change the gauze dressing at home to keep the area dry and clean.
After the first 24 hours, you won’t need any dressing. Showering is allowed after 24 hours, but the area must be gently dried afterward. Ice packs can help with swelling and pain for the first 36 hours. You will need to avoid intercourse for a week, as well as heavy lifting, running, and other strenuous activities.
