Choosing The Right Contraceptive

2. Permanent Artificial Means:

a. Pregnancy Rx: Vasectomy –
How it works: In this procedure, the vasa deferentia (ducts that carry sperms to the penis) of the male are cut, thus ensuring that sperms can no longer exit the body through the penis. The procedure is quick and simple and does not affect either the production of male sex hormones (mainly testosterone) or their secretion into the bloodstream. The no-scalpel (keyhole) vasectomies prevalent these days are done under local anaesthesia and take not more than a few minutes.
Advantages: Permanent birth control with absolutely no effect on sexual desire or libido and a near-negligible failure rate. Involving no complicated surgical procedure, vasectomy is a relatively inexpensive option (done free in government hospitals).
Disadvantages: Can cause short term bleeding. In rare cases, a permanent feeling of pain (chronic post-vasectomy pain) may occur. The psychological fear of impotency due to vasectomy is just a huge myth.
Tip: If you are in your late 30s or 40s with a complete family and a caring partner, go for it and enjoy tension-free sex in the years to come.

b. Pregnancy Rx: Sterilization –
How it works: Sterilization is a permanent method involving a simple surgical procedure to close the tubes between the ovaries and the uterus, so that the sperm cannot reach the egg. The procedure generally involves a laparoscopic process, under general anaesthesia, to cut, clip or cauterize the fallopian tubes.
Advantages: A half an hour procedure with no overnight stay in the hospital, it’s simple and permanent.
Disadvantages: Slight discomfort may occur for a few days after the procedure and sexual abstinence is generally recommended for a week.
Tip: If you are opting for a Caesarean section and have decided not to have more babies, you can have your tubes tied right away and avoid the need for a separate procedure later.