Following a vasectomy, you will normally experience some mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising of your scrotum. This will usually last for a few days.

If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, you can take painkilling medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. However, ibuprofen is not suitable if you have asthma, or a history of stomach ulcers, or kidney or liver problems. Contact your doctor for advice if you are still experiencing considerable pain after taking painkillers.

Wearing close fitting underwear, such as a jock strap or double Y fronts, during the day and at night, will help to support your scrotum and will also ease any discomfort, or swelling. Make sure that you change your underwear every day.

When can I resume my daily activities?

After a vasectomy, you can drive and return to work as soon as you feel able to. Most men will only require 1-2 days off work.

You should avoid any heavy lifting or vigorous exercise for at least one week after your vasectomy operation. This will help minimize the risk of developing complications.

It is safe for you to bathe, or shower, after your operation but, afterwards, you must make sure you dry your genital area gently and thoroughly.

When can I have sex again?

Following a vasectomy, you can have sex as soon as your feel that you are ready. However, most men find that they can resume sexual activities approximately one week after their operation.

A vasectomy will not affect your testosterone levels, which means that your sex drive should also not be affected. You will still have erections, climax, and ejaculate in the same way as you did before the operation.

After your operation, your semen will be tested to check that there are no sperm present. Until you produce two clear semen tests, you will need to make sure that when having sex, you use another form of contraception, such as a condom. You will normally be tested eight weeks after your surgery.