Various surgical procedures can be performed that block the Fallopian tube so that the sperm cannot reach the egg. Although there are many different techniques some features are common to all:

Advantages include:

• 99% effectiveness.
• Once you have it done, you don't have to deal with birth control for the rest of your life.
• Usually done as an outpatient procedure.

Disadvantages include:

• Most techniques are major surgery (with small incisions) in a real operating room with general anesthesia.
• Complications of the surgery are uncommon but not rare.
• Reversal of the operation is difficult, expensive and rarely covered by insurance. Not all surgeries to restore fertility are successful. Sterilization should be considered a permanent decision.