STERILIZATION: SENSIBLE CHOICE OR SERIOUS TROUBLE? – A SUCCESSFUL OUTCOME? (INTRODUCTION)
It is clear from the continued upward trend in requests for sterilization, from the experience of doctors and from the literature, that the procedure is seen as safe and as having a successful outcome. In the great majority of instances both sterilization and vasectomy are safe and satisfactory operations. They remove both the fear of pregnancy and the necessity for further contraception once the procedure is complete. No long-term physical harmful effects have been proved, and follow-up studies suggest an increase in sexual activity in the short term after sterilization (Shain, Miller, Holden et al., 1991).
Most patients who request sterilization regard the decision as a private matter that they have discussed with their partner. They come to the medical profession for technical help, and in very many cases this is all they need. It is at this point that there is an opportunity for full discussion of the expectations of the two people concerned, and for obtaining a medical, obstetric and sexual history. Examination is undertaken to exclude abnormalities and disease. During this interview it should be possible to identify unrealistic fears related to contraception or either of the operations, and to make a decision as to which partner should undergo the procedure.
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