Patient Instructions
Pre-Vasectomy Checklist
Please review this checklist carefully to make sure your vasectomy day goes smoothly. Most patients find this procedure quick, comfortable, and straightforward when properly prepared.
Watch Before Your Visit
Your Checklist
🩸Medications & Supplements
- ☐Stop aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve) 7 days before your vasectomy.
- ☐Avoid the following vitamins and supplements for 7 days before your procedure:
- ▫️Fish oil (Omega-3 fatty acids)
- ▫️Vitamin E
- ▫️Turmeric or curcumin
- ▫️Ginkgo biloba
- ▫️Garlic supplements
- ▫️Ginseng
- ▫️St. John's wort or other herbal blends
- ☐If you take prescription blood thinners (Eliquis, Xarelto, Plavix, or Coumadin), contact our office for specific instructions.
🧼Hygiene & Shaving
- ☐Shower the night before or morning of your procedure.
- ☐Wash the genital area thoroughly with soap and water.
- ☐Trim or shave the front of the scrotum (do not shave the entire area).
- ☐Do not apply lotions, creams, or powders afterward.
👕Clothing
- ☐Wear snug briefs or compression shorts to your appointment for support afterward.
- ☐Bring or wear loose pants or shorts for comfort on the way home.
🍽Food & Drink
- ☐Eat a light meal the day of your vasectomy — no fasting required.
- ☐Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before and after.
- ☐Stay hydrated but minimize caffeine that morning.
🕒Day of Procedure
- ☐Arrive 10 minutes early to complete any paperwork.
- ☐Expect the procedure to take about 15–20 minutes under local anesthesia.
- ☐You may drive yourself home, unless taking an oral sedative — then please arrange a ride. Proof of driver will be required prior to beginning procedure.
🧊At-Home Preparation
- ☐Have ice packs (frozen bag of peas) ready for the first 24–48 hours.
- ☐Stock acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen for mild soreness.
- ☐Plan to rest for the remainder of the day after your vasectomy.
Questions before your procedure? Call our office at 310-697-5325