Vasectomy

Vasectomy is an elective sterilization that some couples decide to have completed. This type of birth control is meant to be permanent. In a vasectomy, a small portion of the tubes that carry sperm (vas deferens) from the testicles is cut and sealed. This prevents pregnancy because no sperm can get into the ejaculate (semen) of the man. There is no effect on production of male hormones, erections, sex drive or ejaculate production. This procedure is completed under a local anesthetic in the office. A pre-procedure appointment is completed prior so that the man may be completely informed of the sterilization process. A physical exam will also be completed at that time to identify any abnormalities before the procedure appointment. Before for vasectomy, it is important that the patient does not take aspirin or ibuprofen for seven (7) days prior. If the patient takes any other blood thinning agent, this must be conveyed to the physician at the pre-procedure appointment. The evening before the man will need to take a shower using a special soap and shave the hair off the scrotum. Do not eat or drink anything the morning of the procedure. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring an athletic supporter or tight fitting underwear for after the procedure. After the procedure, do not take aspirin or ibuprofen for up to three (3) days, the patient will be given a prescription for a narcotic for pain control; ice the affected area with either an ice pack that forms to the area or use frozen peas or corn; the man may shower 24 hours after the procedure, do not sit in water for at least 48 hours. Normal activity may be resumed as desired with the exception of intense athletic activities or activities such as riding a lawn mower. Sexual activity may resume after seven (7) days. Due to residual sperm being present, it is essential that alternative birth control methods be used until two (2) consecutive sperm free specimens are obtained before the patient is notified that he is in fact sterile. The first specimen may be submitted after at least 20 ejaculation; the second should be after at least an additional 10 ejaculations. Please see the link below for more instructions, possible complications and further information

Pre-Procedure Checklist

• Eat normally the night before surgery. Withhold all food and drink after midnight and on the morning of surgery.
• Do not take any aspirin, or any medications containing ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Aleve) at least 7 days prior to the procedure, as these medications have a side effect that can lower blood clotting ability.
• Someone will need to drive you home after the procedure, following your recovery from the procedure. Buy some frozen peas or mixed vegetable bags from the grocery to use as a cold packs to the area after the procedure.

Post-Procedure Checklist

Please call our Call Center at 217-545-7500 to schedule a quick post-operative appointment with Dr. Kohler or Mary Knox, the nurse practitioner. This appointment should be about 1-2 weeks after your surgery date.

Activity
You should rest for the first 24 hours following the procedure to lessen the chance of swelling. Avoid strenuous exercise (including sex) or heavy lifting for 1-2 weeks. After that, you can do all of your normal activities, but at the start, let discomfort be your guide: if it feels uncomfortable, slow down.

Wear supportive underwear (jock-strap or brief-style underwear) for one week following surgery to reduce pain and prevent swelling.

Apply ice packs (frozen peas or mixed vegetables work well) to the groin area several times daily for the first 24 hours to help with swelling. You can apply ice as often as desired.

Medications
Take your prescribed pain medicine, usually Norco, for moderate discomfort. Always take the Norco with food in your stomach, so that you do not get nauseated. You can take Ibuprofen 600mg every 6 hours as needed for mild pain.

Hygiene
Do not shower for 24 hours after your surgery. After 24 hours, you may shower, but do not sit in water for at least 7 days.

Problems to Report
Problems you should report to Dr. Kohler (217-545-7500) if they occur:
1. Fever > 101° F, shaking and chills.
2. Expect a small amount of bloody discharge from the incisions. However, call if it continues and the incision site becomes red, painful or separates.
3. Scrotal hematoma: Extreme discoloration (black and blue) of the scrotum and continuing scrotal enlargement/swelling with associated throbbing pain. Swelling the size of a grapefruit is too large- call to report.

To request an appointment with Dr.Köhler click here

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