Surgical sterilization techniques

Once a couple have completed their desire to have offspring, they may decide to resort to a definitive contraceptive method. The IMER offers different surgical sterilization techniques for both men and women.
These methods are also indicated for people carrying genetic diseases that could be transmitted to their offspring.

Fallopian tube ligation

This technique comprises permanent surgical sterilization of the female, and consists of ligating and sectioning the Fallopian tubes, to thus block the passage of ovules from the ovaries to the uterus, and of sperm in the opposite direction. Fertilization and undesired pregnancies are avoided as a result.

The procedure is usually carried out by means of a surgical technique called laparoscopy, involving a small abdominal incision at navel level to introduce the laparoscope (a small tube equipped with a light source). This instrument makes it possible to visualize the internal genital apparatus of the female, identify and ligate / heat cauterize and subsequently section the tubes.
At present a microlaparoscope measuring only 2 mm in diameter is used, as a result of which practically no scar remains.
The operation requires general anesthesia with a minimum hospital stay.

Vasectomy

This is a male sterilization technique involving sectioning of the duct that joins the testicle to the seminal vesicles and prostate gland (vas deferens), thus preventing sperm from leaving the testicles. Two important aspects must be taken into account:

1.- In addition to sperm, the testicles produce male hormones that are secreted through the venous system into the blood stream. This function is not affected by a vasectomy, as a result of which no subsequent physical changes or alterations in sexual capacity of the patient occur, “Vasectomy is not equivalent to castration”.

2.- Since approximately 95% of the ejaculated semen volume corresponds to prostatic fluid and seminal vesicle fluid, the operation only eliminates sperm passage – leaving the ejaculatory capacity intact. The only changes become apparent when the semen is examined under the microscope (lack of sperm). The technique is performed under local anesthesia, and the patient can return home immediately afterwards.