Vasectomy Recovery

Following a vasectomy, men need a few days of rest for recuperation. The physician sends the patient home with a list of instructions to follow for a full vasectomy recovery.

Immediately Following Vasectomy

• The patient requires a ride home and rest for at least two days. Soreness and minor pain are possible.

Doctor's Instructions

• The first week's instructions following surgery are to wear scrotal support except during sleep, take no baths for two days, rest, apply ice for 20 minutes every hour for two days and then every evening, perform light lifting only, use antibacterial soap, clean the incision and keep it dry, use gauze and ointment at the incision site for two days, use Tylenol every 5 hours for two days, do not have sex or ejaculate, drink no alcohol for two days, and use an anti-inflammatory medication after two days and continue its use for four days.

Recovery after Week One

• Return to work, regular exercise, lifting, and sexual acts unless soreness is present. Use birth control after resuming sexual activity.

Contacting the Doctor

• If you experience bleeding, excessive swelling, a fever, a red scrotum or any unusual discharge, contact the physician.

Verifying Results

• During follow-up, the doctor checks the sperm for sterility. Additional samples are required until sperm is sterile.