Vasectomy and Vasovasostomy - Complications

Itching and Hives

A few men may have an allergic reaction to the local anesthesia and develop itching and hives.

Bleeding

Frequently, blood may seep under the skin, so that the scrotum and penis appear to be bruised. If there is no dangerous swelling, this painless problem usually disappears without treatment within a week or two. If the patient bleeds excessively in the days after the operation and requires more than two or three gauze changes per day, he should call his doctor.

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Hematoma

In between 2 - 5% of cases, bleeding inside the scrotum can cause a painful swelling known as a hematoma. In these cases, the scrotum swells up shortly after vasectomy. The doctor should be called immediately.

Infection

Infections occur in between 4 - 9% of men after vasectomy. The incision site may become infected, causing redness and swelling around the incision. Antibiotics, antimicrobial creams or ointments, or both, along with hot baths several times a day will usually clear the infection in a few days. There have been a few cases of infections in the lining of the heart (endocarditis) and severe gangrene of the scrotum, but they are extremely rare.