Options for Sexual Health

Sterilization can be done for both men and women. Sterilization for men is called a vasectomy and sterilization for women is called a tubal ligation.

How is sterilization done?

For men: The tubes leading from the scrotum that join with the urethra are cut, clamped, cauterized, or tied. These tubes are called the vas deferens. It is a procedure that can be done in a doctor's office using a local anaesthetic.

For women: The tubes leading from the ovaries to the uterus are cut, clamped, cauterized, or tied. These tubes are known as the fallopian tubes. It is a surgical procedure usually performed in a hospital, using a general anaesthetic.

How effective is it?

Tubal ligations and vasectomies are rated as excellent methods of birth control. They should be considered permanent.

Are there any adverse effects from these procedures?

There are no effects on the sexual health of either men or women who have this procedure done.

Advantages

• Freedom from worry about pregnancy.
• Nothing to interrupt lovemaking.
• Permanence
• Lack of significant long-term side effects
• High effectiveness

Disadvantages

• Regret for decision
• Permanence
• Lack of protection against sexually transmitted infections
• Need for a surgical procedure

Special Considerations

• Vasectomies are not effective immediately. The male has to monitor his sperm count for approximately three months following the procedure. Once there is no sperm in the ejaculate, the procedure is then effective.
• The surgical procedure for a tubal ligation is much more complicated than for a vasectomy and the recovery time is also longer for the patient.