Female sterilization is a surgical procedure where the fallopian tubes, which carry the egg from the ovary to the uterus, are blocked (tied and cut, cauterized, or interrupted by ring or clip.) Sterilization ends fertility permanently (only 2% failure at 10 years).
How does sterilization work? (mechanism of action)
Blocking the fallopian tubes prevents sperm from uniting with an egg, thereby preventing fertilization.
Who can use sterilization?
Any women (couples) who are certain they do not want or must not have more children and desire permanent protection from pregnancy.
There is no reason to deny sterilization to any woman. Women with certain conditions should have the sterilization procedure delayed until the condition is resolved.
(For more information, see WHO eligibility criteria.)
Advantages
Highly and immediately effective
Permanent
Has no systemic side effects
Does not interfere with intercourse
Easy to use
Has beneficial non-contraceptive effects (partial protection from ovarian cancer and PID)
Disadvantages
Chance of regret
Surgical procedure (associated discomfort)
No protection from STIs/HIV
In rare case where the operation fails and the woman becomes pregnant, there is a high chance that it will be ectopic
Possible side effects:
Some pain and discomfort during and right after the procedure
Complications associated with anesthesia or the procedure itself are rare
Follow-up:
Observation two to six hours after the procedure
One week after the procedure to check the surgical site
Any time soon after the procedure if signs of infection are present
Counseling
Given the permanent nature of this procedure, thorough counseling is very important. Clients most likely to regret sterilization can be identified through counseling.
