How does it work? of Sterilisation

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Sterilisation works by preventing sperm from reaching an unfertilised egg. This is achieved by either blocking or cutting the tubes that carry the sperm or eggs.

Female sterilisation:

Female sterilisation involves blocking or cutting the fallopian tubes that carry the egg from the ovaries to the womb, a procedure known as tubal ligation. The operation is done under general anaesthetic and may require an overnight hospital stay.

A rigid viewing instrument (laparoscope) is passed through either an opening in the abdomen (laparoscopic sterilisation), or through a single incision in the pubic area (mini-laparotomy). The fallopian tubes are then located using the laparoscope and sealed using clips or by cutting and tying.

Male sterilisation (vasectomy):

Male sterilisation is called a vasectomy and is done by cutting the tube that takes the sperm from the testicles to the penis (vas deferens), usually under local anaesthetic. The procedure takes about 15 minutes and may leave the patient in mild pain or discomfort for about one week. Over-the-counter non-opiod painkillers can be taken to ease pain and discomfort, or a doctor may prescribe stronger combination painkillers for short-term use.

A vasectomy does not affect sex drive or ejaculation in any way.