Sterilisation
What is sterilisation?
This is a pretty drastic measure and probably not the best choice for a teenager. Sterilisation works by blocking the fallopian tubes in a woman, which carry the eggs from the ovaries. Male sterilisation is more often referred to as a vasectomy. It involves blocking the tubes, which carry sperm from the testicles. This operation is really for people who are sure they don't want any children because although the operation can be reversed, it is difficult and is not always successful.
What are the advantages?
- Only 1 out of 2000 male sterilisations fail, while for women it is 1 out of 200.
- Sterilisation does not interfere with sex.
- Once it is done there is no need to worry about contraception ever again.
- Male sterilisation is a very simple operation. It can be done in about 10 minutes.
What are the disadvantages?
- Males can still produce sperm for a few months after sterilisation and so another form of contraception must be used for a while.
- The operation for female sterilisation usually involves a general anaesthetic.
- Sterilisation is difficult to reverse.
- Sterilisation will not protect you from STIs.