Managing complications and adverse effects of vasectomy

Patients will usually require 1 to 2 days off work after vasectomy. Discomfort, local bruising and swelling are common.

Complications of vasectomy include:

haematoma—small haematomas are managed with bed rest, support, cold compresses and analgesia. Large haematomas may require surgical drainage
minor wound infections—may result in an abscess requiring surgical drainage. Epididymo-orchitis is uncommon and presents with rapid onset painful enlargement of the scrotum; it is treated with antibiotics and testicular support
haematospermia and haematuria (rarely)—usually settle without treatment
sperm granulomas—may occur at the site of vas division but are usually clinically insignificant.

There is no evidence for an association of vasectomy with:

Antisperm antibodies are found in most males who have undergone vasectomy, but the clinical significance of this is unclear.