Things to consider
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You need to use contraception right up to and for 1- 3 months after the operation, depending on what procedure you have.
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You can usually resume sex within about a month of the operation, but it can be a little uncomfortable, so take it gently.
Your periods will continue to be as regular as they were before sterilisation. Occasionally, some women find that their periods become heavier. This is usually because they have stopped using hormonal contraception, which may have lightened their periods previously.
Sterilisation does not protect against STIs, so you may need to use condoms if you think you are at risk of infection.
What if?
You’re not sure about whether you want to have children or not:
Once you are sterilised it is very difficult to reverse the process, so it's important to consider the other options available before making your decision. Sterilisation reversal is not usually available on the NHS.
Suitability
You can be sterilised at any age. However, if you are under 30, particularly if you do not have children, you will be offered the opportunity to discuss your choices before you commit to having the procedure.
You should only be sterilised if you are certain that you do not want to have any, or any more, children. If you have any doubts, consider another method of contraception until you are completely sure.
Clinicians do have the right to refuse to refer you for the procedure if they do not believe that it is in your best interests.
Side effects & risks
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Common |
Rare |
Short term: |
Feeling unwell and uncomfortable for a few days after general anaesthetic (if required).
Need some time off work.
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Slight vaginal bleeding and/or cramps.
Any surgery has slight risk of infection.
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Long term: |
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It is possible, though rare, for sterilisation to fail, resulting in pregnancy. If this happens, there is a small increased risk of ectopic pregnancy.
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