A
vasectomy procedure
is a safe, simple and effective
procedure for permanent contraception or birth control. Because it
involves the male reproductive system, some concerns are common.
It’s perfectly natural for men to be
wonder about the possibility of pain or discomfort as side effects
following a vasectomy. As you shape an informed decision, the brief
answer is that a vasectomy procedure includes a local anesthetic that
numbs the area and that
discomfort following a vasectomy
is usually very mild.
You will want to discuss this
information with your vasectomy doctor, who is likely to be a specialist
in vasectomies, and bring up your concern of any complications, if he
or she does not do so.
During and Following the Vasectomy Procedure
As vasectomy doctors apply a local anesthetic, there may be a very brief stinging at one small spot on the scrotum. During
the procedure itself, there is usually no feeling or maybe a slight
pulling sensation. This is especially true when doctors effectively use
the “
No-Scalpel Vasectomy
”
technique. More
recently an additional modification utilizing a special jet injector
usually allows the doctor to avoid using any needle for applying the
anesthesia – hence the name “
No-Needle
Vasectomy.
”
Vasectomy specialists in
these methods report that any patient discomfort following the procedure
is often lower, with more rapid healing.
Although you can expect some discomfort at
first; lasting or significant pain is uncommon. In the first hours
following the procedure, the local anesthetic will begin to wear off,
and you may experience a mild discomfort in that region of the scrotum. This can be relieved or controlled with ice pack application for the first day after the vasectomy. Some men experience vas deferens pain, often described as a dull ache.
This is usually relieved with an over-the-counter pain medication, such as Advil® or Aleve®
and the use of an athletic supporter. Your doctor will advise you of
appropriate use of pain relievers and/or antibiotics, if necessary. You
should follow the specific instructions that your doctor gives to you,
since they are tailored to you and your exact procedure.
It’s important to find a doctor who
can advise you from experience about vasectomy swelling or other
patient concerns. Usually the fear of pain is more of a concern than the
experience itself.
What about other Vasectomy Risks or Complications?
Although a vasectomy is one of the safest of medical procedures, you should ask your doctor to review all
risks and complications
with you in detail. Most vasectomy complications, if any, are usually minor and easily treated. However, these include the possibility of infection, bleeding, transient bruising, temporary swelling or fluid accumulation.
Back to Work
Many doctors will schedule
vasectomy procedures for Friday so that patients will have the weekend
to rest – with recommendations to elevate your legs, stay off your feet,
and use ice packs liberally to soothe the scrotal area and help
minimize any swelling and discomfort. It is very common for men to
return to work the following Monday.
