Your Vasectomy Visit, Step by Step: What to Expect | Dr. Theodore Cisu

The short answer: A telehealth consultation from home, a little prep the week before, one trip to the clinic for a procedure that usually takes about 10 minutes, a few days of rest, and a semen test about three months later. That's the whole thing.

Written by Theodore Cisu, MD, board-certified urologist. Based on the American Urological Association (AUA) Vasectomy Guideline (2026). Last reviewed November 2026.

Ready for step one? Request a telehealth consultation. No referral needed.

Nerves run on the unknown, so here's every step, with nothing left to imagine. Your own instructions from the office always come first.

1. Request a consultation

Use the form or call (540) 332-5630. No referral is needed. The office checks your insurance coverage, or gives you the cash price, before scheduling.

2. The telehealth consultation

You meet Dr. Cisu by video from home or work. He explains the procedure, the risks and the alternatives, answers your questions, and makes sure you're comfortable with the decision being permanent. Partners are welcome to join. This is also when you pick your comfort option and a date at the Charlottesville or Fishersville clinic.

3. Light prep the week before

• If you take a blood thinner, follow Dr. Cisu's instructions about whether and when to pause it. Don't stop a prescribed medication on your own.
• Trim and shave the front of the scrotum as instructed.
• Arrange a driver if you're taking Valium.
• Have snug briefs or a jockstrap and an ice pack ready at home.

4. Procedure day: arrive

Eat a light meal beforehand and wear supportive underwear. Most men are in and out of the office in about 45 minutes.

5. Your comfort option

• Nitrous oxide only: it wears off within minutes, so you can drive yourself home.
• Valium plus nitrous: recommended for most men; you'll need a driver.
• Valium only: you'll need a driver.

6. The procedure

The area is numbed with lidocaine delivered by a needle-free jet injector (MadaJet). Dr. Cisu then reaches each tube through one tiny opening, with no scalpel. Most men feel pressure and tugging rather than sharp pain. The procedure usually takes about 10 minutes, and many men say the anticipation was the hardest part. Read more about the no-scalpel, no-needle technique.

7. Home

You'll leave with written aftercare instructions. Go home, lie down, put your feet up and ice the area for the rest of the day.

8. Recovery

Rest for the first couple of days, then take it easy for the rest of the week: no heavy lifting, hard exercise or sexual activity. Many men with desk jobs are back within a few days. Booking on a Friday lets the weekend do much of the resting. See the recovery timeline.

9. The semen test

About three months later, give a sample at a local lab or with a mail-in kit. Keep using other birth control until Dr. Cisu confirms there are no sperm. Read about the semen test.

10. You're cleared

Once Dr. Cisu confirms your result, you can stop using other birth control. That's it.

Frequently asked questions

How do I prepare for a vasectomy?

Follow your instructions about any blood thinners, shave the front of the scrotum, eat a light meal, and arrange a driver if you're taking Valium.

Do I have to watch?

No. Most men look at the ceiling, chat or listen to music.

Will I smell burning?

Some men notice a faint smell when the tube ends are sealed with heat. It's brief and normal.

What if I get an erection or feel embarrassed?

It happens, and it's not a problem. The team has seen it all and will put you at ease.

What if I panic or tense up?

Tell Dr. Cisu. Nitrous oxide helps many men relax, and the team will go at your pace.

Sources

• American Urological Association. Vasectomy: AUA Guideline (2026), Part I.

This article is for general education and isn't a substitute for medical advice. Follow the instructions from your own visit.