Making the Decision
Sterilization is an elective procedure. This means you can choose whether to have it done. It should be thought of as lifelong.

Because sterilization is a major decision, you should avoid making this choice during times of stress (such as during a divorce or after losing a pregnancy).

If you are sterilized and you change your mind after the operation, attempts to reverse it may not work.

Sterilization does not prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Condoms should be used for protection against STDs.

Sterilization for Women
All of a woman's reproductive organs are in her pelvis.

In a sterilization procedure, both fallopian tubes are closed by being cut, tied or sealed. This prevents the egg from moving down the tube and keeps the sperm from reaching the egg.

The Procedure
Tubal sterilization can be done in a number of ways. The methods used most often are laparoscopy, minilaparotomy and hysteroscopy. Some women may choose sterilization to be done after giving birth. This is called postpartum sterilization. If you are having a cesarean birth, sterilization may be performed at the same time, without the need for additional surgery or a prolonged hospital stay.

Tubal sterilization does not cause your menstrual periods to change. However, if you used birth control pills before you have the surgery, it may take a while to return to your normal cycle. Tubal sterilization does not affect your ability to have or enjoy sex.

Most methods of sterilization in women are effective right away. This means birth control is no longer needed. However, with hysteroscopic sterilization, another method of birth control must be used for three months after the procedure. At that time, an X-ray can be done to ensure the tubes are blocked.

Afterwards
As with any surgery, sterilization has some risk. Serious complications, such as infections, bowel injuries, bleeding, burns or complications from anesthesia, are very uncommon. Most of the time, the problems can be treated and corrected.

The risk of getting pregnant after tubal sterilization is very low (less than one percent). However, sometimes the sterilization does not work and a woman can get pregnant. In women who have had tubal sterilization and get pregnant, more than half of these pregnancies are ectopic.

Finally
Sterilization is a highly effective and lifelong means of birth control for both women and men. If you have any questions or concerns about having sterilization done, discuss them with your doctor.

This excerpt is provided for your information. It is not medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for visiting your doctor. If you need medical care, have any questions, or wish to receive the full text of this Patient Education Pamphlet, please contact your obstetrician-gynecologist.