Sterilization

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Sterilization

Introduction

Surgical sterilization is the most effective form of birth control and the most final. Therefore, it is imperative that men and women who opt for this method of birth control be absolutely certain that they do not want children. This is not something you can change your mind about after it has been done.

Making the decision

This is not an easy decision to make. You will probably vacillate over the decision, constantly asking yourself if you are doing the right thing. Do not hesitate to speak to your doctor and clarify all your doubts, even if you have to call him several times. This is perfectly normal because it is quite an important decision to make. In effect, you are closing off the option of having children permanently.

Couples who usually go in for the sterilization option are those who feel that their family is complete and they are sure that they do not want more offspring. Surgical sterilization may be advised for women who may be at risk if they become pregnant.

However, keep in mind that fertility declines rapidly once a woman is past her child-bearing age (around her mid-forties). Thus, she may only need to use contraception for the next few years. In such a case, undergoing a surgery for the purposes of birth control may be quite a drastic decision and probably unnecessary in the long run. In addition, you must consider the fact that you might marry a little later in life, or even remarry.

Remember that male sterilization, known as a vasectomy, is also an option. This may be slightly less risky, less expensive, and only slightly less effective than female sterilization.

Is surgical sterilization reversible

Some men and women change their minds and ask to have their "tubes untied." Statistics show that only a very small percentage of such people have been able to conceive. There have also been rare cases of the Fallopian tubes rejoining. Tubal ligation using metal clips and rubber bands has greater potential for reversibility. Rarely does pregnancy occur after a tubal ligation. This is not necessarily because the surgery has failed. More likely, the woman was pregnant at the time of surgery so the purpose was already defeated. It is advisable to do a pregnancy test prior to surgery. To be on the safe side, schedule the sterilization operation within the first two weeks following the start of a normal period.

Different Methods of Female Sterilization
Male Sterilization - Vasectomy

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