Sterilization is a serious decision that is made voluntarily. Anyone considering this should be well informed and understand that it is permanent, and yet not totally 100 percent effective.

Each method has a small failure rate that needs to be understood. Be sure you understand the process, risks, and alternatives before going ahead with a permanent method.

If you are considering sterilization, ask yourself the following questions:

It may be worthwhile to talk to friends who have had vasectomies and ask about their experiences. If you are absolutely certain that you do not want children in the future, sterilization is an excellent option. Make sure that you are certain before making such a big decision.

The surgical procedure for a vasectomy is quite simple and is often performed on an outpatient basis. A small incision is made in the scrotum. Then the small sperm-carrying tubes are cut or blocked. Swelling and discomfort are the major symptoms after the procedure. Ice packs and pain killers usually relieve this discomfort. The man will be able to ejaculate normally, but the semen will not carry any sperm. The success rate for this is over 99 percent. The man usually heals very quickly and is able to resume his sex life shortly after the operation.

Remember that vasectomy protects you and your partner from pregnancy, not sexually transmitted diseases. You must still protect yourself from these diseases.

A vasectomy can sometimes be reversed through microsurgery, but this is not guaranteed. Check with your health insurance company about the cover for a vasectomy. They usually cover but may not cover a reversal. See your doctor or local Family Planning clinic about a vasectomy.

Article #4538

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