Vasectomy Related Side Effects

A vasectomy is a surgery for men who no longer want to be able to have children. It is a common surgical procedure that can be done quickly on an outpatient basis. Recovery time after a vasectomy is usually rather quick.
  1. First Week After Surgery

    • Pain is the most common side effect soon after a vasectomy. However, redness and swelling are also common.

    Month Following Procedure

    • A month after a vasectomy, the pain and swelling should be completely resolved. However, painful intercourse is still common in men post-vasectomy.

    Rare Complications

    • In a few cases, a lump may form in the surgical area. If the lump becomes painful or is accompanied by a fever, further medical attention may be needed. Erectile dysfunction may also result out of fear that sex may be painful.

    Serious Side Effects

    • Although rare, abscesses and epididymitis may affect a vasectomy patient. An abscess will occur at the incision site and is a result of an infection. Epididymitis can cause additional pain to a patient because the epididymis tube becomes inflamed as a result of the vasectomy.

    Warning

    • Men get vasectomies to prevent further pregnancy. However, additional birth control options should be used at least 3 months post-op, or until testing shows that there are no sperm present.

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