Women choosing permanent sterilization can have a tubal ligation. A tubal ligation is a much more involved procedure than a vasectomy. Failure rates for tubal ligation are about two percent - slightly higher than those for vasectomy. Since only one partner needs to be sterilized to prevent pregnancy, couples need to choose which partner will have the procedure. It s a very personal decision.
Many men are reluctant to have a vasectomy, even though it has no effect on sexual performance.
Despite the advantages of vasectomies, tubal ligation is becoming a more popular procedure. The reason for this association isn t clear. No matter which method is chosen, couples need to understand they are both considered permanent procedures. Some doctors won t consider tubal ligation in young women because the incidence of regret is much higher than in older women who are more likely to have completed their families or don t want any children. In some cases, doctors may attempt to reverse sterilization.