Problems Reported as Complications

• Problems affect men’s satisfaction with vasectomy.They deserve the provider’s attention. If the client reports complications of vasectomy, listen to his concerns, give advice and support, and, if appropriate, treat. Make sure he understands the advice and agrees.

Bleeding or blood clots after the procedure

• Reassure him that minor bleeding and small uninfected blood clots usually go away without treatment within a couple of weeks.
• Large blood clots may need to be surgically drained.
• Infected blood clots require antibiotics and hospitalization.

Infection at the puncture or incision site (redness, heat, pain, pus)

• Clean the infected area with soap and water or antiseptic.
• Give oral antibiotics for 7 to 10 days.
• Ask the client to return after taking all antibiotics if the infection has not cleared.

Abscess (a pocket of pus under the skin caused by infection)

• Clean the area with antiseptic.
• Cut open (incise) and drain the abscess.
• Treat the wound.
• Give oral antibiotics for 7 to 10 days.
• Ask the client to return after taking all antibiotics if he has heat, redness, pain, or drainage of the wound.

Pain lasting for months

• Suggest elevating the scrotum with snug underwear or pants or an athletic supporter.
• Suggest soaking in warm water
• Suggest aspirin (325–650 mg), ibuprofen (200–400 mg), paracetamol (325–1,000 mg), or other pain reliever.
• Provide antibiotics if infection is suspected.
• If pain persists and cannot be tolerated, refer for further care (see Question 2).