Severe pain and bruising after my vasectomy. Should I follow up with my urologist?

Four days after my vasectomy I have significant black bruising on the left testicle, severe pain, pain when walking, sitting, standing. There is also slight swelling.

My urologist had difficulty locating the right vas deferens. The bruising is worse on the left. Should the bruising and pain be this significant? Should I follow up with my urologist?

Answers from doctors (1)


More About Doctor John C. McHugh, MD

Published on Jun 23, 2017

This most probably a hematoma. Hematomas of the scrotum after a vasectomy, although unsightly and uncomfortable, rarely require intervention or antibiotics. They resolve on their own in time although slowly and will not affect the results of the vasectomy. What you are experiencing is not normal but it is not uncommon either. Elevation, compression underwear and being off your feet are conservative measures. Antibiotics are considered if you see redness or there is suspicious discharge from the incision. It is never a bad idea to call or see your urologist if you are concerned. Interestingly, I too have told a patient that he might expect more bruising on one side due to the difficulty of that side only to have the patient return for concerns about the "easy" side.

Answered by John C. McHugh, MD (View Profile)

This most probably a hematoma. Hematomas of the scrotum after a vasectomy, although unsightly and uncomfortable, rarely require intervention or antibiotics. They resolve on their own in time although slowly and will not affect the results of the vasectomy. What you are experiencing is not normal but it is not uncommon either. Elevation, compression underwear and being off your feet are conservative measures. Antibiotics are considered if you see redness or there is suspicious discharge from the incision. It is never a bad idea to call or see your urologist if you are concerned. Interestingly, I too have told a patient that he might expect more bruising on one side due to the difficulty of that side only to have the patient return for concerns about the "easy" side.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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