For people with uteruses, sterilization includes a surgical procedure that permanently blocks the fallopian tubes where the sperm and egg would normally meet. Because the sperm and egg never have the opportunity to meet, pregnancy cannot occur.
For people with penises, sterilization includes a surgical procedure that permanently prevents the release of sperm during ejaculation (some fluid is still released).
How effective is it in preventing pregnancy?
Extremely effective (96.5%-99.9%)
How effective is it in preventing STDs?
This method is NOT AT ALL effective in preventing STDs, including HIV. If a person has sex, condoms must still be used to reduce the risks of STDs.
Other things to know about STERILIZATION:
Advantages:
- People who have penis-vagina sex do not have to remember to do something to prevent pregnancy
- It is permanent
Disadvantages:
- Because it is permanent, it is not appropriate for anyone who might want to have a child in the future. Because people so often change their mind about having families, sterilization is usually discouraged for people under 30 who have not had children
Acknowledgement: This article was adapted from PlannedParenthood.org, a website that provides education about reproductive and sexual health.
