I have discussed the procedure of no-scalpel vasectomy which outlines what to expect before, during and after a vasectomy. Recovery after vasectomy is generally uncomplicated, particularly if the following instructions are followed.
It is important to have minimal activity on the day of your procedure. Pain is normal as part of the recovery after vasectomy but can usually be managed successfuly with simple pain relief like paracetamol. I do prefer if someone takes the patient home after the vasectomy, but this is not always necessary as the procedure is under local anaesthetic.
When can I have a shower? Recovery after vasectomy – instructions for personal hygiene.
Normal showers can resume the following morning. You may change your underwear and remove the gauze dressing to shower. Obviously it is still early days in the recovery after vasectomy, so be gentle. Do not scrub the surgical area vigorously. After your first shower, again wear supportive underwear. This needs to be worn for at least two days so as to prevent repeated trauma to the area and bleeding.
When can I return to work? Recovery after vasectomy – instructions for work duties.
This depends on the type of work you do. If you work in an office environment which does not involve heavy lifting or intense labouring then you may return to work the following day. This is also if you are relatively comfortable.
If your work involves heavy lifting or more intensive physical labour, then I would suggest that you do not go back to work for at least 48 hours. If you are pain and tenderness free after this time, I suggest a gradual return to work duties.
When can I return to sport? Recovery after vasectomy – instructions for recreational activities.
Again, just like a man who works in a physically demanding job, patients should wait until at least 48 hours before participating in sports, heavy lifting or gardening. You can can return to these duties gradually if pain and tenderness free. If you play sport then I would suggest that you wear supportive underwear for seven days instead of two days.
When Can I have sex? Recovery after vasectomy – instructions for sexual intercourse.
Men may have sexual intercourse one week after there procedure. There may be blood in the ejaculate which is normal. Remember that you will not be sterile immediately after your vasectomy. This takes at least 12 weeks and 20 ejacualations. Until you are sterile as per your sperm counts, then you should use an alternative form of contraception.