Sterilization

Sterilization is considered a permanent method of birth control.  Sterilization procedures for women are tubal ligation (commonly known as “getting your tubes tied”) and Essure®.  This also includes vasectomy.

Tubal ligation is a procedure that cuts or blocks the fallopian tubes so that sperm can’t reach an egg. There are several different procedures that may be used to cut, block, clip or seal the tubes.

Essure® is a procedure where tiny metal coils are put into the fallopian tubes.  Scar tissue grows around the tubes over time, which blocks the fallopian tubes.
Click here to learn more about the female anatomy

Vasectomy is a procedure in which a man’s vas deferens are cut and tied off. After a vasectomy a man will still ejaculate semen but it will not have any sperm in it. Click here to learn more about the male anatomy

How to use

All of these procedures need to be performed by a doctor in an office or health clinic.

Read about more birth control options:

• Condoms
• The Pill
• The Ring
• The Patch
• The IUD
• The Implant
• Abstinence and other behavioral choices

Effectiveness

Tubal ligation: over 99% effective. 

Essure®: over 99% effective. 

Vasectomy: over 99% effective.

Cost

Essure®: $1,200 - $3,000.

Vasectomy: $250 - $1,000.

If you have health insurance, it may pay for all or part of the cost.

Where to get

Sterilization typically occurs in a doctor’s office, health clinic or hospital.

Things to think about

For tubal ligation, some women experience temporary side effects, such as fatigue (extreme tiredness), dizziness, abdominal pain and nausea (feeling like throwing up).  

For Essure®, some women experience pain during the procedure and some women experience vaginal bleeding for a few days after.

For a vasectomy, a man may experience swelling and bruising of his scrotum after the procedure.

Sterilization should only be considered as a method of birth control if you are absolutely certain that you do not want to have any more children or any children at all.  If you are certain you are finished having children, sterilization may be a good option for you.

Remember, male and female condoms are the only forms of birth control that also offer protection against STIs. Condoms can be used with other forms of birth control to provide that protection.