Comparing contraceptives – male vs female sterilisation
WHICH contraceptive method is right for you? We’re continuing to compare and contrast the various methods using information from the National Family Planning Board. Here’s the information on male vs female sterilisation.
MALE STERILISATION (VASECTOMY)
99 per cent effective
A vasectomy is a surgical procedure to block the vas deferens or to “tie the tubes”. It prevents sperm from entering a man’s semen. This surgery does not affect the man’s ability to achieve an erection or have an orgasm. There will still be fluid ejaculation but there will be no sperm in this fluid.
How It Works
A vasectomy can be done in the doctor’s office while the patient is awake and is pain-free (using local anaesthesia). A small incision is made in the upper part of the scrotum, under the penis. The tubes (vas deferens) are cut and tied. The skin incision is stitched/closed. The patient is able to return home immediately. Most men recover quickly with no problems.
After a vasectomy a man is not immediately infertile so another contraceptive method must be used until no sperm are found in the man’s ejaculation (about three months afterward). A vasectomy is a permanent method for men who are sure that they will not want (more) children.
Benefits
A safe, simple, and convenient surgical procedure
Completed within a few minutes in a clinic or office
Little to no pain
No known long-term effects.
FEMALE STERILISATION
99.5 per cent effective
Tubal ligation is commonly known as “having your tubes tied” or a “tie off”. It is an operation in which the Fallopian tubes are tied or cut. This prevents eggs from uniting with sperm and being fertilised. It is a permanent procedure. Clients should be properly counselled before they choose it as their contraceptive method so as to minimise future regret. While it is surgically possible to reverse the procedure, the results have been poor.
Benefits
Permanent method for women who are sure they will not want (more) children
Safe, simple surgery that is usually done without putting the woman to sleep
Very effective
No known long-term side effects
No effect on sexual ability or feelings.
Side effects
For both methods, there’s minor discomfort after surgery.
