Contraception - Male And Female Sterilisation Flashcards
What is sterilisation?
A surgical means of obtaining permanent contraception
How does sterilisation work?
By occluding the Fallopian tubes in women, and vas deferens in women
What documentation should be done before performing sterilisation?
- Consent form should be signed
- Clear documentation about discussion, information given, and any requests made by the individual
What specific issues need to be covered when obtaining consent for sterilisation?
- Failure rate
- Irreversibility
- Time constraints
- Choice of procedure
- Alternative options
- Limitations
Is sterilisation irreversible?
Yes (well no, but should be seen as an irreversible procedure)
What should the patient be told regarding reversal options for sterilisation?
- Success rate as defined by successful pregnancy is very limited
- Operation is not available on the NHS
When is female sterilisation effective from?
Woman is sterile immediately after operation, but can conceive in pre-operative menstrual cycle
What should the woman be advised regarding being able to conceive in the pre-operative menstrual cycle?
She should avoid sex or use effective contraception until menstrual period following operation
When is a man considered sterile after the operation?
Should not be considered sterile until semen samples with no spermatozoa have been confirmed
When should the man receive a semen sample with no spermatozoa?
Usually 12-16 weeks after the operation
What may be required when confirming a man is sterile after vasectomy?
1 or 2 tests
What should couples be advised of regarding choice of sterilisation procedure?
Vasectomy carries fewer risks as a procedure, and has a lower failure rate in terms of unwanted pregnancies
What alternative options are there to sterilisation?
Long-acting reversible methods of contraception
Give a limitation of sterilisation
Does not protect against STIs
What should ideally happen with counselling for sterilisation?
The couple should be seen and counselled together
What does the patient and their partner need to understand before proceeding with sterilisation?
Need to understand that sterilisation is irreversible
What theoretical situation can be used to ensure the couple are sure about sterilisation?
Even if tragedy were to befall their family, neither would wish to have more children
What things should be considered to reduce regret caused by sterilisation?
- Age
- Family structure
- Relationship stability
- Timing
What age groups are more likely to regret sterilisation?
Young people, especially under 30
What family structures are more likely to experience regret?
Couples with fewer than 2 children
