For Patients · University Urology, PC
Vasectomy — Preparation & Recovery
Everything you need to know before and after your vasectomy. Following these instructions closely will reduce your recovery time and minimize complications.
Before Your Procedure
How to Prepare
Driver
A driver is generally not required — most patients are comfortable driving themselves to and from their vasectomy. However, if you have requested an anxiolytic medication (such as Valium) before your procedure, you must arrange a driver. You will not be permitted to drive after taking a pre-procedure anxiolytic.
Shower and shave the morning of
Shower thoroughly and shave the scrotum and base of the penis on the morning of your procedure. Clean, shaved skin significantly reduces infection risk. Do not apply lotions or powders to the area.
Bring supportive underwear
Wear or bring snug-fitting briefs or an athletic supporter to wear home. Supportive underwear reduces discomfort during recovery. Loose boxers are not recommended for the first several days.
Take acetaminophen 1 hour before your appointment
Take 1000mg of acetaminophen (Tylenol) 1 hour before your procedure. Avoid NSAIDs (ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin, Aleve, naproxen) for 1 week before and after your vasectomy, as they can increase bleeding risk.
Plan to rest for 48 hours
Arrange your schedule to rest at home for 2 days after the procedure. Most men return to desk work in 2–3 days and physical labor in 5–7 days.
Blood Thinner / Anticoagulation Medications
Contact your prescribing physician before stopping any blood thinner or anticoagulant. Do not stop these medications without medical guidance, particularly if you are on anticoagulation for a high-risk condition such as atrial fibrillation, a mechanical heart valve, or a recent blood clot.
- Aspirin — hold 7 days
- Clopidogrel (Plavix) — hold 5–7 days
- Apixaban (Eliquis) — hold 48 hours
- Rivaroxaban (Xarelto) — hold 48 hours
- Warfarin (Coumadin) — contact prescribing physician for INR guidance
After Your Procedure
Recovery Instructions
First 48 hours
Vasectomy is not immediately effective
You are not sterile immediately after vasectomy. Continue using contraception until a post-vasectomy semen analysis confirms zero sperm — typically at 8–12 weeks.
Normal after vasectomy
Call us if you experience:
Call (865) 305-9254. After hours, follow prompts for on-call provider.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I have sex after a vasectomy?
Wait at least 7 days. Continue using contraception until your post-vasectomy semen analysis confirms zero sperm at 8–12 weeks.
When can I return to work?
Desk work: 2–3 days. Manual labor or physical work: 5–7 days.
How do I know the vasectomy worked?
A post-vasectomy semen analysis is required. We will schedule this at approximately 8–12 weeks. Do not assume sterility until this test confirms zero sperm.
Does a vasectomy affect testosterone or sexual function?
No. Testosterone, sex drive, erections, and sexual pleasure are all unaffected. The only change is that sperm are no longer present in the ejaculate.
Questions Before Your Vasectomy?
Send a Klara message or call us. Our team is happy to walk you through what to expect.