Pre and post indications

Do not take any aspirin-containing medication for the five days leading up to the procedure.

Read and understand the “AFTER THE VASECTOMY” section below so you know what to expect.

Two to three days before your vasectomy, please shave the underside of your penis and the front wall of the scrotum – do not use powder or deodorant in the genital area on the day of your procedure.

If possible, arrange to have someone drive you home after the procedure.

Plan to do nothing but recline at home (sofa or bed) on the afternoon and evening of the vasectomy.

Eat before your procedure, a normal breakfast or lunch. Nervous men who don’t eat before the procedure are more likely to feel lightheaded during or after their vasectomy.

You may take 2 tablets of extra strength Tylenol just before leaving your home.

Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment.

Be prepared to sign the consent form upon arrival.

Spend a quiet evening at home, reclining in bed or on the sofa. Minimize activity.

Avoid aspirin for 2 days after the vasectomy. You may take acetaminophen (Tylenol) if you have any discomfort. For the first few days, inflammation is a normal component of the healing process. Pain beyond 3 days may signify excessive inflammation, at which point ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) and naproxen (Aleve) are good choices.

You may remove the scrotal support and take a daily shower (no bathing or swimming) starting the morning after the procedure. Replace the scrotal support over your underwear and continue to wear it whenever you are up and around for the next three to five days.

Avoid all forms of heavy physical labour and sports for seven days after your vasectomy. Do not lift anything in excess of 15lbs (including babies/ small children) for the first few days, and avoid all forms of strenuous activities or exercise.

No sex or ejaculation for seven days.

After seven days, when pain is gone and tenderness is minimal, you may gradually ease back into your usual activities (gym, running, sports, etc.) over the course of a couple of days until you reach your pre-vasectomy activity levels.

Once sexual activity resumes, be sure to continue to use other methods of contraception until your sperm count is down to zero. A small amount of blood in the first few ejaculations is normal.

After 12 weeks (and 20 ejaculations), follow up with your semen analysis to confirm that your sperm count is down to zero. Only then will it be deemed safe to stop other forms of contraception.