What to Do Before a Vasectomy

A vasectomy is a routine procedure which is usually done under local anesthesia. While this surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, you still need to prepare for it.

Following the doctor’s instructions for vasectomy prep and post-vasectomy care is key to quick recovery.  Understanding the details can help you make educated decisions about the procedure and avoid unnecessary stress.

Vasectomy Pre-Op Instructions

Vasectomy prep doesn’t demand an extensive consultation with a doctor. However, scheduling an appointment with Dr. Donaldson can help you gain more peace of mind about the procedure. Alternatively, you can receive a comprehensive list of instructions from the clinic.

You’ll have to avoid taking any medication that contains aspirin 10 days before the procedure. Aspirin thins your blood and prevents proper clotting after surgery.

For the day of the surgery, arrange comfortable clothing and ask someone to drive you home after the procedure.

Getting Ready for Surgery

Don’t rush on the day of your procedure but make sure to arrive around 10 minutes in advance so you have some time to relax (and drink some whiskey!).  Check-in with the staff, provide any required information, and prepare for a quick procedure. Plan to spend around two hours at the clinic.  

Bring a snug pair of underwear (not boxers) to wear after the procedure. It will provide support and reduce discomfort during recovery.

During Surgery

It’s normal to feel nervous during the surgery, but rest assured that vasectomies are quick, routine procedures. Dr. Donaldson will talk you through each step.

The doctor will apply a local anesthetic to numb the surgical area. You may feel slight pressure or movement. Then, the surgeon will make a small incision in the scrotum to access the vas deferens, which are the tubes carrying sperm from the testicles. Then, they will cut or seal the tubes to prevent sperm from mixing with semen during ejaculation.

The entire procedure takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

Post Vasectomy Care

After the anesthesia wears off, you can experience some discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can help reduce any soreness. Dr. Donaldson and his team will provide specific recommendations for managing pain. Here are other recommendations:

• Apply ice packs to the area to reduce swelling (it can remain for up to a week)
• Keep your legs elevated when resting
• You can take a shower on the next day
• Wear supportive underwear to reduce swelling and discomfort
• Monitor the incision site for signs of infection (some oozing and blood spotting are acceptable during the first few days)

Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and sexual intercourse for about two weeks. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days, but listen to your body carefully.

When to Get Medical Care

Though vasectomies are generally safe, complications can occur. Look out for:

• Severe pain
• Excessive swelling
• Fever or chills
• Unusual discharge from the incision

These could be signs of complications that need medical attention.

For the Longer Term: Sperm Checks

After the vasectomy, you need to make sure that the procedure is successful. The medical team will schedule a follow-up sperm count test about two months after the surgery. You’ll need to continue using contraception until the tests confirm that your semen is free of sperm.

Schedule Your Vasectomy at Upstate Urology near Greenville SC

The key to a successful and worry-free vasectomy is finding the right surgeon and clinic. At Upstate Urology, we have a team of world-class urologists headed by Dr. Donaldson, who has performed hundreds of vasectomies over the course of his 25-year career.

To schedule an appointment at our clinic near Greenville, SC, please contact us at any time.

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