This is not an option for young people. Sterilisation is a good method for people who have completed their families or are sure they never want children. Must be regarded as permanent as reversal surgery is very difficult and often unsuccessful. For both men and women sterilisation is over 99% effectivie.

Female Sterilization

Sterilisation for women blocks the fallopian tubes so that egg and sperm cannot meet. It is a permanent method of contraception. The operation is done under general anesthetic.

Advantages

• It is useful for women who have completed their families and are sure they don’t want to have more children
• The risk of unwanted pregnancy is almost completely removed

Disadvantages

• Sterilisation doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections
• Counselling is important before undertaking this procedure
• As with all surgery complications may occur

Male Sterilisation

Sterilisation for men is called a vasectomy. The surgery is permanent and involves cutting the tubes that carry sperm to the penis. The operation takes about 15 minutes and is usually done under general anesthetic

Advantages

• It is useful for men who have completed their families and are sure they don’t want to have more children
• Sterilisation does not affect orgasm or ejaculation