This is a permanent method of birth control. Female sterilization, often called tubal ligation or "getting your tubes tied", means closing off the tubes through which the egg travels. Male sterilization is called vasectomy, which closes off the tubes through which the sperm travels. Both procedures are covered by OHIP and do not require your partner's permission. (Reversals are NOT covered by OHIP!)

Tubal Ligation

Tubal Ligation is done in the hospital. The doctor makes one or more small incisions in the abdomen or vagina in order to reach the fallopian tubes. The tubes are cut or clamped so that the sperm cannot meet with the egg. There are a variety of ways of doing the procedure but all require a general anesthetic (put to sleep). You return home the same day, or the next morning.

Vasectomy

A vasectomy can be done in the doctor's office or hospital outpatient department. After giving a local anesthetics to freeze the scrotum, the doctor makes one or two small incisions in the scrotum so the vas deferens (the tube which carries sperm from the testes) can be reached. The tubes are cut and the ends tied, stitched or clipped. Vasectomy will not affect virility [or manhood], that is, there will be no change in voice, no hair loss or decrease in sexual drive. There will be no noticeable change in volume of ejaculate. After the procedure, it will take 12 - 15 ejaculations before the semen is free of sperm. Therefore, alternate birth control is necessary during that period of time.

It is of utmost importance that you realize that sterilization is intended to make you infertile. And like any other decision that will affect you for the rest of your life, your choice to have the surgery must be made for the right reasons, and only after you understand all the facts. If you're under stress for whatever reason and particularly if you've recently divorced or separated, now is not the time to make your decision. The choice of this method of birth control must ultimately be yours. Although your partner should be as fully informed as you are, you must not feel pressured to proceed if you are not ready. Potential risks or complications should be discussed with your doctor.

No one should undergo sterilization with the hope that the procedure can be reversed. Recent advances in microsurgery have increased the possibility of joining fallopian tubes or vas deferens again, but the success rate is variable and it involves major surgery. If you have doubts about your decision to be sterilized, use a reversible form of birth control.

Sterilization gives no protection from sexually transmitted infections.

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