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FEMALE

STERILISATION

PROS

Easy to use
As it is a permanent method of contraception, you don't need to remember to take/use it every day or every time you have sex.
Not user dependent
As it is a permanent method of contraception, you can't forget to take it or use it in the wrong way.
Highly effective
Over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Periods
Doesn't affect your periods.
Permanent
Long term solution to contraception.
Hormone free
It's a non-hormonal method of contraception.
Doesn’t interrupt sex
You don't need to worry about contraception in the moment.
No hormonal side effects
No hormonal side effects such as weight gain, mood swings and breast tenderness.

CONS

Not reversible
Not usually reversible
STIs
Does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Administration
Requires a medical procedure.

The pros and cons listed are not exhaustive. Talk to your doctor or nurse for more information.

SIDE EFFECTS

female sterilisation side effects

As with any surgery, there’s a risk of complications, these can include:

Internal bleeding, infection or damage to other organs.
It can fail – the fallopian tubes can spontaneously rejoin and make you fertile again, although this is rare.
If you get pregnant after the operation, there's an increased risk it'll be an ectopic pregnancy. See your healthcare professional if you suspect an ectopic pregnancy.

PREPARING FOR YOUR GP APPOINTMENT

Talking to your doctor

Get the information you need for an informed discussion with your doctor.

LEARN MORE

PP-UN-WHC-GB-0308 July 2025