Female sterilisation (also known as tubal ligation) is a surgical procedure that blocks the fallopian tubes. 

Male sterilisation (also known as vasectomy) blocks the sperm ducts. 

Both methods prevent the sperm and the ovum (egg) from uniting, providing extremely effective prevention of pregnancy. 

Both male and female sterilisation are very safe, with low mortality and complication rates. 

Sterilisation can also increase sexual pleasure by removing the fear of an unplanned pregnancy. 

Because the procedure is permanent, sterilisation is an important decision that must be considered carefully. 

It is often a mutual decision not to have more children reached by both partners. 

Male sterilisation is slightly simpler, safer and more effective than female sterilisation and it also allows men an opportunity to have an important contraceptive role. 

Sterilisation is very rarely appropriate for young people and young people who are sterilised have higher rates of regret than older men and women. 

In exceptional cases where it is contemplated, there must be informed choice and consent. 

Sterilisation is over 99% effective against pregnancy, but it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.