Vasectomy
The testicles produce sperm which are carried into the body through two small tubes (the vas) to storage areas near the prostate gland. These tubes are divided during a vasectomy operation so that sperm can no longer get through. This will sterilise you.
You will have an incision at the top of the scrotum on each side.
All your stitches will dissolve usually in about 10 days or so.
You must consider the vasectomy an irreversible operation. The two ends of the vas can join up again but this is a very rare occurrence.
Your vasectomy should not affect your sex life or your general health.
DOs
- Contact the hospital immediately if your wound bleeds excessively or you have severe pain. A slight ooze is usual which should not worry you
- Take your prescribed painkillers or Paracetamol as instructed. You may feel tender and sore following your operation
- Take contraceptive precautions after your operation. The storage organs behind the prostate can take several months to clear of sperms. You will continue to issue sperm after your operation. We will test two sperm samples 4 months after your surgery. If both specimens are clear then you will be given the all clear to abandon contraception. The results of the tests cannot be given out over the phone for confidential reasons
- Remove the dressing, as instructed, in a warm bath if necessary
- Have a daily bath or shower in order to keep your wound clean until the sutures have dissolved
- Wear supportive underpants until the sutures have dissolved. You may find it more comfortable
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Resume work after a few days if fit to do so
- If the stitches have not dissolved within 10 days and you are worried please contact the ward
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DONTs
- Do not drive a car or operate machinery for 24 hours if you have had a general anaesthetic
- Refrain from contact sports and swimming until all is healed
- Refrain from sexual intercourse until all is healed and you are comfortable. Remember to take contraceptive precautions until you are given the all clear
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