If you're sure that you don't want a future pregnancy, you may consider sterilization.

For men, vasectomy is the only option for sterilization. During this straightforward surgery, the tubes that carry sperm into the semen are cut and sealed.

Women may choose a sterilization option such as tubal ligation, a surgical procedure that permanently blocks the fallopian tubes. Another option is complete removal of the fallopian tubes (salpingectomy), which may reduce ovarian cancer risk, too.

Sterilization is an effective method of birth control. But the decision to pursue sterilization must be taken seriously. Although reversal is sometimes possible after vasectomy or tubal ligation, sterilization of any type is considered permanent.

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Feb. 09, 2023