Female sterilisation permanently prevents pregnancy by blocking or sealing the fallopian tubes
It's more than 99% effective, with only around 1 in 200 people becoming pregnant afterwards
It's intended to be permanent — reversal isn't usually available on the NHS
It doesn't affect hormones, so periods and sex drive continue as normal
It doesn't protect against sexually transmitted infections
About Female Sterilisation
Female sterilisation — sometimes called having your "tubes tied" — is a permanent method of contraception. It works by blocking, sealing or removing the fallopian tubes, the passages that carry eggs from the ovaries to the womb, so that sperm can no longer reach an egg. Eggs continue to be released from the ovaries as usual, but are simply absorbed naturally by the body instead.
It's one of the most effective forms of contraception available, with only around 1 in 200 people becoming pregnant afterwards over their lifetime. It's intended to be a permanent decision, and reversal isn't usually available on the NHS and isn't always successful even when attempted privately. It doesn't affect hormone levels, so periods and sex drive continue as before, and it doesn't protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Page last reviewed: 6 March 2024 · Next review due: 6 March 2027
Sterilisation · Deciding
Finding Out if It's Right for You
? 4 min readReviewed: March 2024
Making the Decision
If you're considering sterilisation, you can book an appointment at your GP surgery or a sexual health clinic to discuss it. A doctor or nurse will explain what's involved, the alternatives available, and the possible risks, and you should be offered counselling to help you think it through — it's also worth discussing with a partner, if you have one.
Since the decision is permanent, doctors take particular care when counselling anyone under 30, anyone without children, or anyone who's recently had a baby, ended a relationship, or is going through a difficult time, since regret is more common in these circumstances. Long-acting reversible options, such as the contraceptive implant or coil, are just as effective and are worth discussing as an alternative if you're not entirely certain.
Page last reviewed: 6 March 2024 · Next review due: 6 March 2027
Sterilisation · Procedure
What Happens During the Procedure
? 4 min readReviewed: March 2024
The Operation
Sterilisation is usually a minor operation, most often carried out using keyhole surgery (laparoscopy) under general anaesthetic. The surgeon makes a couple of small cuts in the tummy — one to insert a thin camera so they can see inside, and another to insert the instrument used to fit clips over the fallopian tubes, or to remove them entirely, which is now often the preferred approach for greater effectiveness.
Most people go home the same day, once they've recovered from the anaesthetic, been to the toilet, and eaten something. You'll need a responsible adult to take you home and, ideally, stay with you for the first night, since you won't be able to drive for 24 hours after a general anaesthetic.
Page last reviewed: 6 March 2024 · Next review due: 6 March 2027
Sterilisation · Recovery
Recovering from Sterilisation
? 3 min readReviewed: March 2024
What to Expect Afterwards
It's normal to feel a little unwell or uncomfortable for a few days, with some mild bleeding or period-like pain that isn't cause for concern. Most people are able to return to work within about 5 days, though it's best to avoid driving, cycling, operating machinery or drinking alcohol for at least 48 hours. Any stitches are usually dissolvable, though occasionally need removing if they become sore — your GP practice nurse can help with this if needed.
Since sterilisation doesn't affect hormones, your periods should continue as before, though if you were previously using hormonal contraception like the pill, you may notice your periods becoming heavier once you stop it.
Page last reviewed: 6 March 2024 · Next review due: 6 March 2027
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