The choice of sterilization procedure among married couples.

Surgical sterilization is playing a growing role in contraception among married couples. Both vasectomy and tubal ligation can be done as outpatient procedures. Neither procedure has overwhelming advantages over the other. This study sought to determine why one member of a couple, rather than the other, decided to undergo the sterilization procedure. There do not seem to be any significant demographic differences between those couples who choose vasectomy and those who select tubal ligation. Men may undergo vasectomy because they feel it is the easier procedure. A significant number of women also feel that vasectomy is easier, yet for various reasons they are motivated to undergo tubal ligation. In many couples, the choice is made because one partner will not consider becoming sterilized, and this is twice as likely to be the husband. Family physicians can play an important role in assisting couples to choose the best alternative.