While a typical vasectomy can take anywhere between 15 and 30 minutes to perform, the amount of time it will take to recover can vary greatly from one patient to the next. At Comprehensive Urology, our trained urologists understand that making the decision to have a vasectomy can be nerve-racking, which is why we strive to ensure that our patients are as comfortable and prepared as possible for the days and weeks following the actual procedure.
What to Expect After a Vasectomy
Immediately following a vasectomy procedure, you are required to have someone else drive you home to avoid causing any stress or strain to the incision area. Your scrotum may be numb for an hour or two after the procedure. In the next few days you will likely experience soreness, swelling or bruising, but the best solution is to simply take it easy and rest as much as you can. Pain medication, such as acetaminophen, can help relieve discomfort as your body begins to heal. Many patients can resume their normal activities after a few days of bed rest, while others may require more than a week. It is crucial to pay attention to your symptoms and respond appropriately.
Facilitating Your Recovery
There are numerous ways to give your body the best chance at a quick, efficient recovery after a vasectomy. The skilled urologists at Comprehensive Urology suggest the following steps for a faster recovery time:
- Limit physical activities – Heavy lifting, exercising, and even walking or should be avoided as much as possible during the first two to three days.
- Apply a cold pack to the incision area – An ice pack or even a bag of frozen vegetables can help provide pain relief. Do not apply the ice pack directly to the skin, first wrap the pack in a towel.
- Wear snug fitting underwear – Briefs or jock straps can help keep the incision area stable and secure as your body works to heal.
- Avoid bathing or swimming for the first 48 hours – Depending on the procedure, you may have stitches that will need to stay dry to prevent infection.
- Refrain from sexual activity for at least a week – In the initial stages of your vasectomy recovery, ejaculation may be painful or cause bleeding, so it is best to avoid sexual activity altogether. Additionally, you will need to use a back-up form of birth control, such as condoms, until you have had follow up tests to confirm that your sperm count is zero.
Successful Birth Control for Men
Are you considering getting a vasectomy or have already undergone the procedure? If you have questions or concerns about a vasectomy, schedule your appointment with a skilled urologist at Comprehensive Urology in Beverly Hills. Call (310) 499-2756 or book a comprehensive, confidential appointment online today.