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Sterilization for Women and Men
What is sterilization for women and how does it work?
Sterilization is meant to be a permanent form of birth control for women. One type of sterilization for women is a tubal ligation. During a sterilization procedure, a health care provider blocks a woman's fallopian tubes, which can be done in several ways.
One way is by tying and cutting the tubes, which is called a tubal ligation. The fallopian tubes can also be sealed using an instrument with an electrical current. They may also be closed with clips, clamps, or rings or sometimes a small piece of the tube is removed. Another method consists of placing small metal coils into the tubes. Scar tissue grows around these coils and blocks the tubes. The brand name for this method of sterilization is Essure.
What is sterilization for men and how does it work?
Vasectomy is a form of sterilization for men that is meant to be permanent. During a vasectomy, a health care provider closes or blocks the tubes that carry sperm. The sperm cannot leave a man's body after the tubes are closed or blocked and cannot cause pregnancy.
How effective is sterilization?
Sterilization for both women and men is 100 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. For women, most methods of sterilization are immediately effective with the exception of Essure. Essure will become effective after approximately three months. For men, sperm may remain in the tubes after a vasectomy. A back-up method of birth control should be used until the reserve of sperm is gone, which can take up to about three months. A sperm analysis can be conducted by a health care provider to determine that there are no more sperm to ejaculate.
What are the advantages of using this method?
- Sterilization does not change your hormones.
- It is safe and lasts for life.
- Many men and women report that they have more sexual pleasure because they no longer have to worry about pregnancy.
What are the disadvantages of using this method?
- Cannot have biological children in the future.
- Should weigh the possibility of life changes such as divorce, remarriage or death of children before choosing sterilization.
- Your clinician will discuss medically-recognized benefits and risks.
- Sterilization does not protect against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
Planned Parenthood of Indiana does not currently offer sterilization at any of its health centers. Please call (800) 230-PLAN for a referral.
Women
Men
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Spermicide
