Sterilization
Both male and female sterilization have increased in popularity in recent years, and it is now the leading form of
contraception among couples who have been married for more than 10 years. The sterilization procedures for both sexes
involve surgery and are considered permanent forms of contraception, although there have been a few instances in which
reversal has been achieved. Vasectomy--the male sterilization procedure--involves making a small incision to sever the
tubes through which the sperm travel. For women, sterilization may be achieved by severing or blocking the fallopian
tubes to prevent the egg from reaching the uterus, or by removal of either the ovaries or uterus (hysterectomy). The
latter are not recommended simply to achieve sterilization.
Summing Up
In choosing a contraceptive method, you should consider questions of safety, reliability and suitability to particular
circumstances. In the case of couples, the wishes of each partner should be spelled out, so that a mutually agreeable
decision is arrived at. For any given method, especially where new information becomes available regularly, you should
feel free to ask your doctor about risks and benefits in order to make an informed choice. Whatever the decision at any
given time, it need not be viewed as immutable. You should also understand how long it may take for fertility to be
reestablished after use of an IUD or the pill. In any instance, contraception should be considered a mutual responsibility,
and unless pregnancy is desired, it should be a conscious consideration before engaging in sexual relations.
