3 things to think about before you decide to sterilize

Sterilization such as vasectomy or tubectomy is a form of contraception that is permanent. If you have been sterilized, you will no longer have to worry about an unplanned pregnancy. You can also have sexual intercourse whenever and wherever you want. This sterilization procedure is about 98-99.8% effective, depending on the method. Permanent birth control is more effective than conventional birth control methods, especially barrier methods such as condoms and diaphragms. However, before you plan to do a permanent birth control method, it is a good idea to look at the following information.

What you need to do before deciding to get sterilized

Sterilization is a permanent form of contraception which is very effective at preventing pregnancy. However, it can be difficult to return to its original state if you suddenly change your mind. In addition, this permanent birth control does not protect you from venereal disease. Both men and women can be sterilized. Here are some things you should do before you start using this permanent contraceptive method:

1. Talk to a health care professional

Determining whether you are ready for sterilization is an important decision. Of the majority of women surveyed who were interested in being sterilized, less than a quarter of women had discussed the topic with a health care professional. For those of you who haven't already, here are some tips for talking to your healthcare professional:

• When you make your doctor's appointment, let him know that you want to discuss the choice of permanent birth control, so that you have enough time to discuss it.
• Bring a list of questions for your appointment with the doctor, so they can guide the conversation.
• Let your doctor know what matters most to you when he hears your options.
• Take note of the doctor's response.
• If you don't understand your doctor's response, keep asking questions until you understand.
• Ask your doctor to write down information or provide physical information that you can take home with you.

2. Is sterilization your choice?

Your readiness to be sterilized will depend a lot on the circumstances of your life. Here are a few questions to ponder your choices:

• Don't I want to have more children?
• Do I want to undergo sterilization?
• Will I be satisfied with the effectiveness of this contraceptive?
• Am I constantly worried about unwanted pregnancies?
• Am I comfortable using birth control pills?
• Do I want a contraceptive that doesn't worry me anymore?
• Is my partner sure that he or she does not want a future pregnancy?
• Am I considering this just because my partner wants it?
• If circumstances change, for example my marital status, is it possible that I will want to get pregnant?
• Do I have a medical problem that makes pregnancy unsafe?
• Have I discussed all my decisions with a healthcare professional?

3. How do you know if you don't want to have children?

Women consider many factors when making decisions about not wanting to have children. Age was the most common factor in decisions, followed by financial situation and the number of children desired. What's more, most of the women surveyed expressed satisfaction or happiness about the decisions that had been made. Only 9% feel sorry, and that is often related to problems in their life. Therefore, it is important to consider what happens in your life when you have made up your mind. Some of the things that might happen when you postpone this birth control decision could include the following:

• If you are young, you may decide to have more children in the future. Remember that sterilization is irreversible.
• If you have recently been divorced or are in an unstable marriage, avoid making any big decisions during this most stressful time.
• If your life circumstances change. The most common factor associated with regret is a change in marital status.
• If you just gave birth. During this time, you can feel a lot of different things, which could change your decision over the next few months.

If you have difficulty controlling your thoughts, consider counseling, either alone or with your partner. Talking about your problem will be very helpful.