>Personal Health >Womens Health >Family Planning >Methods >Sterilization

Sterilization

Sterilization is a surgical procedure intended to permanently prevent pregnancy, usually accomplished through vasectomy (for males) or tubal ligation (for females). It is not recommended for people who are considering childbirth in the future.

To be eligible you:

• Must be 21 years of age and mentally competent
• Must desire permanent contraception
• Must not desire future children
• Must be a female client with a medical condition that makes pregnancy dangerous

Requirements:

• Must be in good health and have had a health assessment in the last year
• Must be counseled
• Must have a signed Sterilization Informed Consent Form
• Procedure cannot be performed prior to 30 days or more than 180 days after signed consent

Vasectomy procedures are available at no cost through a referral to the Planned Parenthood agency. Any of the 5 Women's Health sites can provide the necessary referral form.

Female Sterilization is provided through Medicaid coverage.