Sterilization
Sterilization is an operation that makes a man or woman permanently infertile. The man can no longer father children and the woman can no longer bear children. It is therefore a decision that must be considered very carefully.
Reversing sterilization later is expensive and often unsuccessful.
Sterilization for men
When a man is sterilized, the two sperm ducts in the scrotum are cut or tied; the procedure takes place in a doctor’s surgery or in hospital. This blocks the passage of the sperm (sperm cells) through the sperm ducts. The sperm no longer mix with the seminal fluid and are quickly reabsorbed by the body.
It will be several weeks before the seminal fluid ejaculated during orgasm does not contain sperm. Only then can the man definitely no longer father a child.
Sterilization for women
Sterilization of women is generally carried out in hospital. In this operation, the woman’s Fallopian tubes are cauterized, using an electric current, or clipped.
After the operation, egg cells continue to ripen in the ovaries. Ovulation also takes place. However, because the Fallopian tubes are blocked, sperm can no longer reach the egg cell to fertilize it. The egg cell is then quickly broken down by the body.
What changes after sterilization?
After sterilization, the same hormones continue to be produced by both men’s and women’s bodies. Libido is also not affected by sterilization.
An important decision for the future
Sometimes a man or woman will regret the decision to be sterilized. If the person’s life situation changes, the person may begin to wish for a child, or another child. Some people may regret the decision if the operation was done when they were very young. After a relationship breakdown, an abortion or a difficult pregnancy, it is important to take enough time before making the decision to be sterilized.
Male or female sterilization?
Male sterilization is simpler than female sterilization. Female sterilization requires a relatively big abdominal operation under general anaesthetic. This surgery is more risky than male sterilization, and also more expensive.
