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Both male and female sterilisation should be regarded as permanent
(final). It might be possible to reverse these operation, but this
is often difficult, expensive, and is rarely available on the NHS.
The question anyone considering a sterilisation operation needs
to ask themselves is:
If the answer to this is not an absolute 'yes', then you should
consider other alternatives, which can be as effective.
For example people in the following situations have regretted having
had a sterilisation:
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Their relationship broke down and they formed a new one with
a partner who wanted (more) children.
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Their financial circumstances changed and they could afford
to have another child.
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Their existing children grew up, went to school, and they got
'broody' again as they realised they now have the time to enjoy
another baby.
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One of the couple died.
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One (or more) of their existing children died.
Research has shown that people are more likely to regret being
sterilised if:
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They are young (aged under 25 years).
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If their relationship was already a bit unstable.
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If they made a decision at a time of stress including when
they have just lost a job, had a new baby or a termination.
These are difficult things to think about and discuss - but it
is important that you are 100% sure for yourself and have discussed
it honestly with your partner too.
We now have such effective alternatives to sterilisation, no one
should feel pressured to make the decision in a hurry.
How can we decide which of us should be sterilised?
The decision about which partner undergoes the operation is a
personal one but the following might help.
In favour of male sterilisation (vasectomy):
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It is easier, safer, more effective, cheaper (for you or
the health service) than female
sterilisation.
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Many men feel that after their partner has done all the work
of pregnancy and labour (or long-term contraception) it is
their turn to contribute.
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For some women, female sterilisation can be a risky operation.
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Some men fear that if their female partner is sterilised
then she will feel 'safe' to have affairs.
In favour of female sterilisation:
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If the woman is sure she does not want further pregnancies
under any circumstances - and if the current relationship
ends the man could have further children with a new partner.
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For some men, the vasectomy might be difficult because of
previous surgery in the groin area.
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Some men are 'not keen' on the idea of an operation on their
scrotum.
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Some women fear that if their partner is sterilised then
he will feel 'safe' to have affairs.
If we decide we definitely want to consider sterilisation what
do we do next?
If you feel sure that either of you wants to be sterilised, you
should discuss this with your general practitioner, who can arrange
for you to be referred to an appropriate clinic. There is sometimes
a waiting list, especially for vasectomy. Because a vasectomy
is much cheaper than female sterilisation, many couples choose
to pay to have the operation done privately, usually through a
charity such as Marie Stopes International (website).
Also on this website
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