After the Procedure

Someone should drive you home. Any discomfort is usually mild, and pain relievers should be used if needed. The local anesthetic begins to wear off after an hour or so. Recovery time after a no-scalpel vasectomy is usually a little less than that after a traditional vasectomy. The following are general guidelines that help ensure a speedy recovery (talk with your own doctor for specific instructions):

• Apply an ice pack or package of frozen peas (or other such package) to the scrotum for the first 24 hours after the procedure. Wrap the ice pack in a towel. Do not place ice directly on your skin.

• Stay off your feet as much as possible for a couple of days.

• Wear snug cotton briefs or an athletic supporter to help apply pressure against the procedure area and for support of the scrotum for the first week or two after the procedure.

• Avoid heavy lifting or exercise for at least 1 week. Doctors commonly allow a return to work within 3 days unless the job involves physical exertion. In general, avoid activities that cause discomfort.

• Wait at least a week before resuming sexual activity.

• Your semen will be collected (usually at home) and examined under a microscope approximately 4-8 weeks after surgery (and possibly even later) to make certain that no sperm remain. It is important that you use some form of birth control until your doctor specifically tells you that you are sterile (no sperm are present).