How Long Does a Vasectomy Usually Take and What to Expect

Vasectomies are simple, usually painless procedures recommended to men who wish to have a permanent contraception method that helps prevent the unpleasant surprise of unplanned pregnancies. Not only do you get to take charge of your reproductive health, but you can now perfectly enjoy the intimacy of your partner with barely any worries about a surprise baby. 

A vasectomy is a form of minor surgery and your urologist would definitely be making use of special surgical tools during the procedure. At Purely Vasectomies, your overall comfort remains our only priority, and we have demonstrated our commitment to making the entire process easy for years over and over again. We aim to provide you with all the information needed, so you know what to expect following your vasectomy.

How Long Does a Vasectomy Take?

Getting a vasectomy is quite similar to a dentist’s visit for a routine procedure, but on the bright side, this takes even shorter length of time. 

At Purely Vasectomies, our team is so experienced, that the entire vasectomy procedure usually takes between 10-20 minutes.

Your vasectomy will be carried out in our specially equipped office, where local anesthesia and light sedation will be used.

At Purely Vasectomies, our board-certified urologists focus on making the procedure seamless while ensuring that you enjoy the utmost comfort. Our central goal is to change the perception of the population about how vasectomies are performed, one individual after the other.

How Do I Prepare for My Vasectomy?

At Purely Vasectomies, it is our duty to provide you with credible information on how best to prepare for your vasectomy as soon as your appointment is scheduled.

• It is important to shave your testicles, preferably a 1-2 days before the procedure.
• Avoid getting razor cuts to reduce the risk of infection. Shave all the pubic hair away from the scrotum to the top of the penis. Do not use an electric razor; single-blade disposable razors work the best. 
• Make sure to take a shower on the morning of your appointment, and perhaps take special care to use an antimicrobial-based bathing solution to increase your chances of working in a sterile environment. 
• Thoroughly wash your scrotum and entire groin area after hair removal and also before the surgery. 
• Wear comfortable clothing that will be easy to change in and out of, and bring along tight-fitting underwear on the day of the surgery for proper support. Similar to a compression sock. 

What to Expect During the Procedure

The first thing to note is that the procedure is very quick and efficient with our expert team. 

Anesthesia, often local, is given before the procedure is commenced to give you a comfortable experience.

Over-the-counter painkillers like Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen are often recommended, and if the discomfort persists it is advisable to speak to a nurse or doctor.

Do take note that there are some medications like Aspirin and other anticoagulants (aka blood thinners) like warfarin that should not be taken on the days leading up to your procedure. The clinic will give you a consent form which will be explained to you by your doctor, with a list of precautions to sign, and if you have taken any of the highlighted medications, you need to let your doctor know before the procedure. 

Some bruising should be expected as there will be a slight skin opening. Swelling, or a slight tenderness of the scrotum is also not unusual. 

Following the procedure, the first few ejaculations might also have the occasional blood staining but do not worry, as these are all expected reactions, and you can be certain that our board-certified urologists know the best approach to manage the complications. 

Post-Procedure Recovery

A vasectomy is a minimally invasive procedure, and it is often recommended that you come along with a loved one or friend to drive you home, although a number of men are able to go home without any help. You may place a Ziploc bag filled with ice to provide some relief to your scrotum or use a frozen bag of peas as a cold compress. 

You will be advised by your surgeon to avoid strenuous physical activity in the first seventy-two hours. 

After the first three days post-procedure, you can fully return to work, but it is advisable to avoid heavy lifting (Recommendation is anything greater than 30 pounds).

 At Purely Vasectomies, we are ready to assist with any questions you might have about possible restrictions regarding activities at home or work. 

Vasectomy FAQs

How long does a vasectomy take to fully heal?

It is common to experience minimal testicular pain and swelling for up to a week after undergoing a vasectomy. Painkillers as prescribed by our board-certified urologists would come in handy. 

Getting an erection may feel painful initially and you might see some blood in your semen, but these symptoms would wear off after some time. 

What not to do the night before a vasectomy?

Avoid anti-inflammatory medications like aspirin at least a week before the minor surgery. 

Ensure to properly shave your scrotum, and avoid any cuts while at it. Then at least two days before your procedure, avoid alcohol as well as immediately after the procedure. 

How painful is a vasectomy?

You may feel a little discomfort when you get the local anesthesia shot (similar to a dental filling)  before the procedure for tying your tubes commences at the Vas Deferens. Following the surgery, you would not experience significant pain, and although there might be some bruising or swelling.

At Purely Vasectomies, we are passionate about helping men go through the process of vasectomy as seamlessly as possible. 

Vasectomies are safe and easy, and the minimal pain it gives in some situations is a slight tingle compared to the comfort and assurance it gives after. Purely Vasectomies prioritize unrivaled comfort for you, and we stay committed to attending to your reproductive health needs.