faq
Planning
How many visits are required for a vasectomy?
In most cases, just one visit.
If you are clinically suitable, both the consultation and the procedure can be completed on the same day. If you prefer to have a separate consultation first, please let us know when booking.
Can I have sedation before the vasectomy?
Yes. We offer an oral sedative option for patients who would like it.
If you choose sedation, you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home, and you should not drive for the rest of the day.
How long does a vasectomy take?
The procedure itself takes about 15–20 minutes.
Including consultation, preparation, and aftercare instructions, we recommend allowing up to two hours in total. We believe it’s best not to rush this process.
Can my partner be with me during the procedure?
Your partner is welcome to attend the consultation.
During the procedure, they will be asked to wait in the reception area for safety and infection-control reasons, and so our team can focus fully on your care.
Prepare
How should I shave before the vasectomy?
Shave or trim the upper front and sides of the scrotum. Lift the penis to access the area properly.
Wet shaving is often easier and reduces the risk of small cuts. Stubble is fine—there’s no need for a completely smooth shave.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing. Slip-on shoes and trousers without a belt are easiest, as you’ll remove your belt and shoes before the procedure.
When can I shower after the procedure?
Keep the area dry on the day of your vasectomy. You can shower the next morning.
Should I eat before my vasectomy?
Yes. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, and eating beforehand helps reduce the small chance of feeling faint.
What should I bring?
- Medicare card (or details)
- Payment card
Should I stop my medication?
In most cases, you should continue your regular medications, including blood thinners, unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
If you are on short-term blood thinners, your vasectomy may be postponed until you’ve completed your course.
Your visit
Where can I park?
- Burpengary East: Onsite parking available
- North Lakes: Building car park or Westfield nearby
- Springwood: Onsite parking available
- Sunshine Coast: Street or hospital parking nearby
- Mackay Day Hospital: Rear car park
- Ooralea Clinic: Onsite parking available
- Cairns Clinic: DFO Centre parking
Please arrive 5–10 minutes before your appointment.
Who will I see?
All vasectomies are performed by Dr. Raj Selvarajan.
Is everyone suitable for a vasectomy?
Some situations may require extra discussion before proceeding, such as:
- Being under 25 years old with no children
- Uncertainty about your decision
- Certain anatomical factors
Can I drive home afterwards?
If you do not take sedation, you may drive yourself home after a short rest in the clinic. If you have sedation, arrange a driver.
Can I contact the doctor afterwards?
Yes. Most aftercare concerns can be managed by phone. We may arrange a review if needed.
Aftercare
Where can I park?
- The anaesthetic will wear off in 2–3 hours.
- Wear supportive underwear for at least three days.
- Avoid heavy lifting (> 20 kg) for five days.
- Rest where possible.
When can I return to work?
- Desk-based work: Usually 1–2 days
- Physical work: Allow at least 3 days, sometimes longer.
When can I have sex again?
You must continue contraception until your post-vasectomy test confirms clearance.
Ejaculation can resume from 48 hours, intercourse from 1 week.
When can I return to sport or exercise?
- Avoid all sport for 1 week.
- Resume light upper-body exercise after 1 week.
- Lower-body exercise after 2 weeks.
- Contact sports/running after 2–3 weeks.
What should I look out for?
Mild swelling, bruising, or small lumps are common and settle over time.
- Contact us if you have:
- Severe pain or swelling
- Persistent bleeding
- Signs of infection (redness, warmth, discharge)
Can there be blood in semen?
A small amount can occur for several weeks after the procedure. It is usually harmless but let us know if it is heavy, painful, or persistent.
Post vasectomy Test – What you need to know
Post-vasectomy test
- Do the test at least 16 weeks after the procedure and after 25 or more ejaculations.
- Use the container and referral form we provide.
- Abstain for 3–5 days before collecting your sample.
- Take the sample to a collection centre or lab within 1–2 hours.
What is the cost of the test?
Pathology providers charge a small fee (usually $50–$150). Medicare does not bulk bill post-vasectomy semen analysis.
How will I get my results?
We send results by SMS or email within 2 working days. Contact us if you have not received them after 3 days.