Preparing for your vasectomy: the complete checklist for the day of the procedure

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A vasectomy is a small, safe procedure performed under local anaesthetic that takes around 20 to 30 minutes. There is very little you need to do beforehand - but a good preparation makes the whole experience calmer, more comfortable and free of surprises. This checklist walks you through exactly what to arrange in advance, what to leave at home, what to bring and how to make the day itself as smooth as possible.

In short: trim rather than shave, discuss any medication with our doctor, avoid alcohol, wear a snug pair of underwear, and bring your ID and bank card. We explain each point below.

Why does good preparation matter?

A vasectomy is a routine, low-risk procedure. Even so, a little preparation helps keep the chance of swelling, bruising or post-operative bleeding to a minimum — and helps your recovery go smoothly. You do not need to fast, and no general anaesthetic is involved. It comes down to a few simple things to arrange in the days beforehand and on the morning itself.

Should I shave before a vasectomy?

No - do not shave, but trim. Do not shave the scrotum smooth with a razor. Small nicks and irritated skin actually increase the risk of irritation and infection. The day before the procedure, trim the pubic hair around the scrotum short yourself using clippers on a longer setting. This lets the doctor work in a clean, clear area without any damaged skin.

What should I do about blood thinners and other medication?

Never stop taking your medication on your own initiative. If you take blood thinners (such as acenocoumarol, apixaban, rivaroxaban or a daily aspirin) or any other medication, always discuss this with one of our doctors in advance. Some medicines call for a small adjustment around the procedure, while others can simply be continued — we decide this together, safely and tailored to you.

We will go through it right away, so you know exactly where you stand.

Can I drink alcohol before a vasectomy?

Avoid alcohol the evening before and on the day of the procedure. Alcohol thins the blood and increases the risk of post-operative bleeding or bruising. Otherwise there is no need to fast: you may eat and have breakfast as usual before you come in.

What should I wear — and why snug underwear?

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing you feel relaxed in. The most important item you bring yourself: a snug pair of underwear (tight-fitting boxers or an athletic supporter).

You put this on straight after the procedure. Snug underwear supports the scrotum, limits swelling and makes the first few days noticeably more comfortable. Wear firm support as much as possible during the first week — including overnight.

What should I bring to the appointment?

A quick checklist to run through before you leave home:

• Valid photo ID (passport, ID card or driving licence)
• Your bank card or cash to pay for the procedure
• A snug pair of underwear or an athletic supporter for straight after the procedure
• Optional: paracetamol for any discomfort at home (no ibuprofen or aspirin, unless agreed otherwise)
• Someone to collect you — do not drive yourself home; see below

Can I drive myself home after the procedure?

No — we advise against it. Arrange for someone to collect you and take you home afterwards. Even though you only receive a local anaesthetic, you may not feel fit enough to take part in traffic safely straight after the procedure.

Something important to be aware of: if you drive against this advice and an accident occurs, your insurer may decide not to cover the damage. For that reason, please do not come by car on your own — arrange to be collected or travel with someone else.

Your preparation at a glance

The week before

• Discuss your medication with our doctor if you take blood thinners.
• Arrange for someone to collect you and take you home after the procedure.
• Make sure you have a snug pair of underwear ready.

The day before

• Trim (do not shave) the pubic hair around the scrotum.
• Do not drink alcohol.
• Get a good night's sleep.

The day itself

• Have breakfast as usual — there is no need to fast.
• Bring your ID, bank card or cash, and snug underwear.
• Wear comfortable clothing and arrive in good time.

What happens after the procedure?

After your vasectomy, take it easy for the first few days and wear firm support. Most men return to work within one to two days; hold off on heavy lifting and intensive exercise for the first week. About 12 weeks after the procedure, we carry out a semen analysis to confirm that no sperm cells remain. At that point a vasectomy is more than 99% reliable. Until that result is in, continue to use contraception.

Why De Herenkliniek?

Male sterilisation is our sole focus — and you will notice the difference. You do not need a referral from your GP, there is no waiting list, and you are usually seen within 14 days at one of our locations in Amsterdam, Rotterdam or Hilversum. The procedure costs €499, including the consultation, intake, operation and aftercare (excluding the laboratory test).

Frequently asked questions

Should I shave before a vasectomy?No. Shaving with a razor increases the risk of irritation and infection. Trim the pubic hair around the scrotum short with clippers the day before.

Do I need to fast before a vasectomy?No. You receive a local anaesthetic, so you may eat as normal. Only alcohol should be avoided the evening before and on the day itself.

Should I stop taking blood thinners?Never stop on your own. Always discuss it with one of our doctors — sometimes we make an adjustment, sometimes you can simply continue. We decide this together.

What should I bring to the appointment?Valid photo ID, your bank card or cash to pay, a medication list and, above all, a snug pair of underwear for straight after the procedure.

Can I drive myself home after the vasectomy?No, we advise against it. Arrange for someone to collect you. If you drive against this advice and an accident occurs, your insurer may refuse to cover the damage, so please do not come by car alone.

Why snug underwear?It supports the scrotum, limits swelling and makes the first few days after your vasectomy considerably more comfortable.

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