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What to expect
Return to activity
Follow up schedule
When to go to emergency
What to expect
- Bruising may be noticeable on the skin
- Minor bleeding may be present from the wound. You can wear a light pad in the underwear if necessary
- Scrotal discomfort will generally resolve within a week
- The suture material used to close the wound is dissolvable and this will take a number of weeks
Return to activity
- Driving – you can drive after 24 hours
- Work – you may require some time off work. The duration will depend upon your occupation. In general you could return to light duties after a day or so. You should discuss this with your surgeon prior to surgery to arrange a certificate
- Lifting – avoid heavy lifting for one week after surgery to minimize the chance of secondary bleeding
- Activities – walking is fine and encouraged after surgery. Strenuous activity including running, gym, golf, cycling and swimming should be avoided for one week
- Sex – avoid for 48 hours or until you are comfortable. Vasectomy is not effective immediately. You must use another form of contraception until you are given clearance
- You can shower after 24 hours but avoid soaking in the bath for at least one week. Keep the wound clean and dry.
Follow up schedule
- Severe bruising and swelling – this may be due to secondary bleeding. This is uncommon but can occur within the first week or so after surgery
- Fever, chills or shakes – this may indicate infection
When to go to emergency
- Vasectomy is not effective immediately. You must use another form of contraception until you are given clearance
- In general, it takes at least 2 or 3 months (and at least 20 ejaculations) to achieve sterility. You will need to do a semen check to confirm this
- Routine follow up is conducted after 2-3 months