Jon’s experience: No big deal

I’m a 46-year-old male who just had a vasectomy (no-scalpel variety) on August 3, 2001. I had done quite a bit of research on this procedure beforehand, so I pretty much knew what to expect. The “consultation” therefore was quite brief and we pretty much just got on with it. I had downloaded all my forms and had them all filled out prior to my arrival at the office at 3:00 pm. I received the initial injection (yes, it did hurt a little) at 3:10 pm and was out the door at 3:40.

The procedure itself was completely painless, in fact, I’ve had haircuts that were more uncomfortable. I have to admit though, the idea of someone poking around the “naughty bits” with sharp objects was a little creepy. Although I didn’t watch the procedure, I did have a running conversation with the Doc the entire time. I tried my best not to distract him too much.

I was sent on my merry way with two collection vessels (they are a bit optimistic on the volume) for my 6 and 10-week analyses. I asked whether these could be accelerated (we have an upcoming vacation) and was told that the sperm take 72 days (how do they know these things?) to reach the ejaculate from the testes. I’ve seen so many different schedules for this on the net, I don’t if there is really any consensus on the timing.

I had a little bit of post-procedure discomfort, a dull ache, for about three hours after arriving home. This was nicely handled by the Vioxx (the good stuff) and the frozen peas. I chose peas because I hate them! No pain the next day until I went grocery shopping. The ache returned briefly but went away as soon as I sat down. Had sex that night (the oral variety). Everything seems to work, more or less.

Day three is pain-free, swelling is negligible no Vioxx, no frozen peas. Although my post-procedure instructions said no sex for 7 days (I don’t believe everything I read) we gave it a shot. TOO SOON! Maybe should have been more careful of positions. The pain went away quickly but I think I’ll give it a few more days just to be sure. Anyway, the vasectomy was no big deal, and we’re looking forward to being latex-free shortly!

Submitted by Jon (Phoenix AZ)