Something that happens around spring is a surprising rise in vasectomies.

What is most likely coincidental has also grown into quite the perfect combination of scheduling personal business matters and making sure there’s time for March Madness. Because if you’re planning on getting into the games, why wouldn’t you go ahead and schedule your vasectomy at the same time?

While we were disappointed to hear that March Madness (and so many other favorite sporting events) have been canceled or postponed due to COVID-19, if you’ve been planning a vasectomy, Mississippi Urology is still able to perform them during this downtime.

Vasectomies usually require (or it is advised) that you take two days of couch sitting and resting, which may pair well right now. 

Here’s what you should know:

The Procedure

A vasectomy is a minor surgery and usually, you go home the same day. During the 10-30 minute procedure, a urologist will numb the scrotum using a local anesthetic before making a small incision. Then, locating the vas deferens—the tube that carries semen into the urethra—your doctor will bring a portion of the tube through the incision, cut and seal it. The sealed vas deferens will be returned to the scrotum and the incision stitched. 

The vasectomy is a very common procedure with rarely any complications. However, a vasectomy should be considered a permanent procedure, so be certain you do not want more children before you schedule the surgery. 

You can be sure that the procedure does not affect your sex drive or sexual performance. A vasectomy is a very safe, cost-effective, and reliable form of birth control. 

The Recovery 

After a vasectomy, you will need to wear tight-fitting underwear to minimize swelling and reduce any pain or tension. While mild pain or swelling is common after the procedure, it should not last for more than a few days and can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Applying an ice pack to the scrotum for 20 minutes at a time during the first 48 hours after the procedure will also help manage the pain and swelling. 

You’ll be asked to shower before you come in for your scheduled vasectomy and then wait 24 hours after the surgery before showering again. Gently using soap and water will help keep the surgical site free from infection. Avoid sitting in a bath or swimming for three to five days after your vasectomy. Rest is the most important part of your recovery. For the first 48 hours after your vasectomy, you’ll need to avoid any work or strenuous activity. By day three, you may be able to do some light work, but heavy lifting, sports, and sex need to wait until five to seven days post-surgery. 

The Right Timing

A prescribed minimum of 24-48 hours to sit and rest is much easier to endure when needing to be home anyway. To learn more or schedule your vasectomy, contact MS Urology.