FAQ's - Nottingham Vasectomy Service

Below are answers to some of the questions we frequently get asked about our service, if you have any other questions please get in touch.

What is the difference between One stop and Two stop operations?

Two stop – involve 2 separate appointments. Generally speaking we prefer to see patients at least 2 weeks before the planned operation to offer counselling about the operation, answer your questions and ensure you are suitable for surgery in the community. This allows for a ‘cooling off’ period for you to decide whether you still wish to have the operation.

One stop – involves 1 appointment where counselling and surgery occurs on the same day.

What do I do on the day of operation?

Wear snug fitting under wear to support the scrotum.
Ensure you shave your scrotum and have a warm bath / shower before the operation.
You do not need to starve because the operation is carried out under local anaesthetic.
You can bring your favourite CD with you, and we will play it in the operating theatre during your procedure, we want you to feel as relaxed as possible.
Convenient free parking is available at each location. Please arrive on time for your appointment.
On rare occasions, the examination will reveal that the operation is not possible under local anaesthesia in which case you will be advised to have the vasectomy on a later date under general anaesthetic at your local hospital.
The operation will take about 20 minutes. We like you to enjoy a cup of coffee/tea with biscuits after the operation before you return home.
our spouse/partner is welcome to accompany you during your operation or may wait for you in the waiting area.
We will also ask you to complete a satisfaction questionnaire relating to the service you have received.
You will receive detailed instructions after the operation together with contact details of the surgeon in the unlikely event of you experiencing any problems after the operation.

Can I drive?

We would advise your spouse/partner/colleague drive you home or that you order a taxi.

After the operation

By the time you get home the anaesthetic will be wearing off and you may experience mild ache or pain. This is a normal reaction after the operation and you should take normal pain killers like paracetamol.

Allow 24 hours for the wound to seal before having a shower, and avoid having a bath for 2 days. It is advisable to avoid alcohol on the day of operation.

If you have any concerns after the vasectomy you can contact the surgeon or your GP.

The next day you should feel quite well and be able to engage in some light domestic duties although you may continue to experience some discomfort.

After 2 days you may notice some discolouration of the scrotum due to bruising. This is normal and gets better.

If you notice any increasing swelling or pain, you need to contact the surgeon or your GP.

When can I go back to work?

If your job is non-manual and involves light duties you can return to work within a day or two. If it involves heavy manual work, it is better to wait for a week. Avoid contact sport, running or going to the gym for at least a week after the operation.

The decision as to when you return to work is yours, essentially whenever you feel ready to do so.

When can I resume sex?

Usually within 3-4 days or when you and your partner feel comfortable.

Can I stop using other contraception?

Not yet.

It will take time to clear the sperm from the rest of the vas. It may take up to 25 or more ejaculations to clear the sperm.

You need to provide a specimen at 4 months showing that there are no sperms in the sample before you can stop using other forms of contraception.

What happens if I do not submit the requested specimen?

If you fail to submit the required number of semen specimens for analysis by the laboratory, we will not be able to confirm your sterility and you should continue to rely on an alternative form of contraception.