Preparing for your Vasectomy

There are some simple things that you can do in advance of your appointment, to get ready for your visit to the vasectomy clinic:

  1. Be certain that you do not wish to father any more children.
  2. Do not take aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medication for several days before you attend for the procedure.
  3. Before you attend the clinic it is not necessary to shave the scrotum (testicle sac) as this may in fact increase the risk of infection from minor skin trauma. You may trim the hair beforehand if you so wish.
  4. We generally prefer you to keep the area dry for at least a couple of days after your vasectomy, so have a good soak in the bath or shower before you attend.
  5. Wear or bring a pair of tight well-supporting underwear such as briefs or ‘Speedo-type’ swimming trunks (not boxer shorts) to provide additional support and help hold the non-adherent dressing in place.
  6. Prepare questions that you may have for the counsellor. You will be asked to sign a consent form stating that you understand the risks involved and that sterility cannot be guaranteed.
  7. We recommend you arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. Although most men may feel perfectly capable of driving themselves home afterwards as the anaesthetic does not cause drowsiness and whilst the anaesthetic remains effective, there should be no discomfort whatsoever, there is a risk involved, particularly if you have a tendency to feel dizzy or faint after Medical or Dental appointments. It is for this reason that you are advised to arrange for someone to drive you home.
  8. If you have any localised infection around the genitalia, we would prefer to delay operation until this has been treated.
  9. Also, if you have any chronic illness, particularly any heart condition or blood disorder, please let us know well in advance, especially if you are taking blood thinning medication (Aspirin, Clopidogrel, Warfarin or other anticoagulants).
  10. Remember that you should avoid heavy or strenuous activity for a week afterwards, so you may need to make prior arrangements for light duties only with your employer.