Pre- & Post-Vasectomy Instructions

Instructions for Your Vasectomy

Preparation is the key to success in any situation, and a vasectomy is no exception. To help you have the best experience possible, we’ve put together a few videos and a detailed list of instructions to follow before and after your procedure.

If you have any questions or concerns that aren't answered here (or, let's face it, even if they are), feel free to contact us for more information. We know that this process can be nerve-wracking for some, so we're happy to ease your mind and guide you through each step.

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Vasectomy Pre-Op Instructions FromThe Vasectomy Center of CT

What To Do Before Your Vasectomy Procedure

Plan for Recovery Time: Clear your schedule! The first two days after your procedure should be reserved for rest, with the following 5 to 7 days limited to light activity.
Skip Certain Medications: Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), naproxen (Aleve), and fish oil for seven days before your appointment. If you need minor pain relief during this time, stick with acetaminophen (Tylenol).
Prep the Area: Trim the hair above your penis with a pair of scissors and shave/trim the front of your scrotum several days before your appointment. Trust us, it’ll make things easier.
Ask for a Ride: Arrange for someone to drop you off and pick you up from your appointment.

What To Do on The Day of Your Vasectomy

Use Hibiclens: Within an hour or two of leaving home, be sure to take a shower. After your normal routine, use Hibiclens soap (which you can find on Amazon or at your local drugstore) and a washcloth to wash your lower abdomen, groin, thighs, penis, and scrotum. Rinse thoroughly.
- Note: Hibiclens isn't FDA-approved for use on the genitals, but it is commonly used this way. Plus, as an antiseptic, antimicrobial, and antibacterial soap, it's been shown to help decrease infections when used ahead of genitourinary surgeries.
Dress the Part: Wear a clean jock strap or sports compression shorts to the appointment for support. Again, wear it to your appointment—don't just bring it along.
Have a Bite to Eat: Eating beforehand helps prevent lightheadedness, but be sure to keep it light.
Visit the Bathroom: Empty your bladder before leaving the house.
Stay Warm: Warm conditions make the procedure easier and more comfortable, so wear long pants and crank up the heat in the car.
Be a Passenger: As previously mentioned, you’ll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment. Using a ride service is fine if finding someone is a problem.

Vasectomy Post-Op Instructions & Semen Analysis Information

What To Do After Your Vasectomy Procedure

Keep Using Birth Control: The vasectomy won’t take full effect for about three months. You’ll need a semen analysis to come back clear before stopping other birth control methods.
Rest Up for 48 Hours: The best way to do this is to lie down on your back, whether on the couch or in bed, with your testicles elevated. We recommend:
- Placing a small rolled towel under your testicles.
- Moving your penis out of the way by reflecting it up onto your abdomen.
- Using a cold pack or a bag of frozen peas on the front of your scrotum for 20 minutes at a time.
Manage Discomfort: During the first 24 hours after your surgery, only use acetaminophen (Tylenol) as needed. Do not exceed 1,000 mg every six hours.
Skip a Shower: Don't bathe or shower for the first day of your recovery. After that, you’re good to go.
Take It Easy: After the first two days of rest, you'll still need to avoid heavy lifting, exercise, or sexual activity for an additional 5 to 7 days. You’re healing—give yourself a break.
Keep Calm: About 10% of men notice some blood in their ejaculate during the first month. This is normal and will resolve on its own as your body heals.
Reach Out If Needed: If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Matson is just a phone call away!

How To Complete Your Semen Analysis

Order Your Kit: The only way to declare a vasectomy a complete success is by confirming that your semen is free of sperm, and our partnership with Fellow makes this process easy and convenient.
Wait 12 Weeks: Before taking your test, you'll need to give your body time to clear out any remaining sperm, which takes about 12 weeks (3 months). The American Urological Association recommends ejaculating at least 20-30 times during this time.
- Note: As previously mentioned, keep using birth control during this time.
Test at Home: Your Fellow kit will come with instructions on how to collect your sample from the comfort of your own home.
Submit Your Sample: Mail your sample back to Fellow's lab for analysis. Results typically come in within a day or two. If you have any questions about your results, reach out to Dr. Matson.
Repeat If Needed: If there are still sperm in your sample, don't panic—this is common. A new kit will automatically be sent to you, at no additional cost, to be completed after another month.

Pre & Post Op Info