SURGICAL METHODS OF REPRODUCTIVE PLANNING

Commonly referred to as “STERILIZATION” it encompasses tubal ligation for women

and vasectomy for men. In more erudite parlance, sterilization can be understood as a definitive
method of contraception, rendering an individual incapable of procreation in perpetuity. Instead
of relying on conventional barrier methods or hormonal interventions for contraception, one may
opt for a surgical procedure that effectively precludes the occurrence of pregnancy.

Numerous individuals opt for these surgical modalities due to their unparalleled efficacy
as contraceptive measures, second only to the practice of abstinence. An additional allure lies in
their cost-effectiveness, as they obviate the need for any subsequent expenditures. Furthermore,
these procedures are renowned for their non-interference with the pleasurable aspects of sexual
experiences.

Moreover, it is worth noting that the incorporation of this particular method yields a heightened
level of efficacy, thereby leading to a reduction in the occurrence of unintended pregnancies as evidenced
by Truccell’s scholarly work in 2011.

VASECTOMY
- A method of contraception for males that effectively impedes the inclusion of
spermatozoa within the seminal fluid.
- The procedure entails the meticulous severance and subsequent occlusion of the vas
deferens (which carry sperm)
- It is associated with minimal incidence of complications and is typically conducted in an
ambulatory environment with local anesthesia.
- The spermatozoa, which were found within the vas deferens during the surgical
procedure, have the potential to maintain their viability for a duration of up to six months.
(Henceforth, notwithstanding the fact that the male individual may engage in sexual
intercourse once again within a span of one week, it is advisable to employ an additional
contraceptive measure until two successive reports confirming the absence of
spermatozoa have been acquired.)

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH VASECTOMY

● HEMATOMA
- It can develop at the surgical site in the absence of a scalpel or puncture incisions.
 ● UROLITHIASIS
- There have been reports of an elevated occurrence of kidney stones, and low
testosterone levels following a vasectomy, an indication of potential disruptions in
the balance of minerals and hormones (Kronmal, et. al 2017)

Commonly asked question

“Can a man still ejaculate after vasectomy?”

-Yes, a gentleman who has undergone vasectomy continues to produce seminal

fluid and retains the ability to engage in ejaculation. However, it is important to note that seminal
fluid does not typically contain viable spermatozoa. The homeostasis of testosterone levels and
the preservation of all other masculine sexual characteristics remain unaltered (Johns Hopkins
Medicine, nd).

TUBAL LIGATION
- Also known as female sterilization
- A method of contraception that results in permanent infertility
- The procedure entails the surgical intervention of severing or obstructing the fallopian
tubes, thereby impeding the likelihood of conception.
- This procedure has been found to exhibit an impressively high efficacy rate or 99.5%
(Cunningham et al., 2008).

TYPES OF TUBAL LIGATION

● LAPAROSCOPY
- This is done following the cessation of a menstrual flow and preceding the
occurrence of ovulation.
- A surgical laceration is created via the umbilicus (1cm), then subjected to gas
inflation (carbon dioxide), followed by the insertion of a laparoscopy. The
physician, shall then employ clips to obstruct or impair the functionality of the
fallopian tubes.
● MINILAPAROTOPOMY
- Also known as “mini-lap”
● CULDOSCOPY