Vasectomy Vs. Tubal Ligation

When it comes to a point in your life, you may think about considering Tubal Ligation (tying the fallopian tubes) or a Vasectomy in yourself or your partner as a form of permanent sterilization.

There are quite a few pros and cons of each.

Pros of a Vasectomy
Chance to reverse the procedure (However, this can be quite expensive - cryogenic freezing of sperm is more recommended).
Offers between 0.1 and 0.2% of pregnancy occuring (higher than Tubal Ligation).
Generally minor, quick and painless surgical procedure
Cheaper than tubal ligation
Extremely low chances of death during surgery (about 1 out of a million will die during a vasectomy)
Can have it done at the hospital after a birth, if wanted

Cons of a Vasectomy
Post-Vasectomy Pain Syndrome - between 5 to 35% of men experience multiple forms of groin pain from their vasectomy (which can last for a lifetime.)
Approximately 5-11% of men regret their vasectomy
Some men experience depression and anger at the loss of their reproductive ability
Short term bleeding and bruising may occur
Sexual desire found to be diminished in approx 10 (or more) percent of men who have undergone a vasectomy
Does not protect against STDs

Pros of a Tubal Ligation
Extremely low chances of death during surgery (about 4 in 100,000 - still higher than a vasectomy).
Can be performed during a C-section (tubes are exposed during surgery)
About 99% effective in the first year after the ligation
Reversable in about 98% of cases

Cons of a Tubal Ligation
More invasive form of surgery opposed to a vasectomy
Slightly higher chance of death during surgery in comparison to vasectomy.
Does not protect against STDs
Can affect menstrual cycle, hormone production and libido


So, vasectomy or a tubal ligation? Only you can decide (along with your partner and doctor) what is the best decision for you to make.



sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tubal_ligation
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasectomy