Following a vasectomy, complications are rare. Most men feel sore and tender for a few days after the operation, and will usually experience some bruising and swelling on or around their scrotum (sack surrounding the testicles).
However, in some cases, a vasectomy can cause more serious problems, some of which are outlined below.
Haematoma
A haematoma is when blood collects and clots in the tissue surrounding a broken blood vessel. Following a vasectomy, you may develop a haematoma inside your scrotum.
Haemtomas are mostly small in size (pea-sized), but can occasionally be large (filling the scrotum) and rarely, can be very large (going beyond the scrotum).
This can cause your scrotum to become extremely swollen and painful. In severe cases, you may need further surgery to treat the blood clot.
Sperm granulomas
When the tubes that carry sperm from your testicles (vas deferens) are cut, sperm can sometimes leak from them. In rare cases, sperm can collect in the surrounding tissue, forming hard lumps that are known as sperm granulomas.
Your groin or scrotum may become painful and swollen either immediately, or a few months after the procedure. The lumps are not usually painful and can often be treated using anti-inflammatory medication, which your GP will prescribe. If the granulomas are particularly large or painful, they may have to be removed surgically.
Infection
After a vasectomy you may be at risk of developing an infection, as a result of bacteria entering through the incisions (cuts) made in your scrotum. Therefore following the operation, it is important to keep your genital area clean and dry to minimise the risk of infection.
Long-term testicular pain
Some men get pain in one or both of their testicles after a vasectomy. It can happen immediately, a few months or a few years after the operation. It may be occasional or quite frequent and vary from a constant dull ache to episodes of sharp, intense pain. For most men, however, any pain is quite mild and they do not need further help for it.
Long-term testicular pain is usually the result of a pinched nerve or scarring that occurred during the operation. You may be advised to undergo further surgery to repair the damage and to help minimise further pain.
Full feeling in your testicles
After a vasectomy, some men may develop the sensation that their testicles feel 'fuller' than normal. This is usually caused by the epididymis becoming filled with stored sperm. The epididymis is the long, coiled tube that rests on the back side of each testicle. It helps to transport and store sperm.
Any such feelings should pass naturally within a few weeks. However, speak to your GP if you are still experiencing fullness after this time.
Fertility
In a very small number of vasectomy cases, the vas deferens can sometimes reconnect over a period of time. This means that the vasectomy will no longer be an effective form of contraception. However, it is rare for this to happen.
