If you’re ready to make the life-altering decision to obtain permanent birth control, check out our list of 4 easiest forms of permanent birth control for men and women.
While many people are actively trying to start a family, just as many (if not more) are actively trying to prevent pregnancy. Not every individual or family is financially, emotionally, or otherwise prepared to raise a child. Luckily, we live in an age where there are many safe and effective methods of birth control available to most people. I, personally, do not ever want to have children. On the extremely unlikely off chance that I may decide to have a child in the future, I would want to adopt. Overpopulation is such a huge issue today, and there are so many children who need stable homes. I am not yet old enough for any reputable doctor to perform a birth control surgery on (trust me, I’ve asked), but these are some great options for me to keep in mind for the future. It is best to consult a doctor when determining the best form of birth control for you.
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If you are still exploring your options, and may you aren’t ready yet to make a permanent decision, also check out our list of 5 best methods for birth control.
In looking for the best options for permanent birth control, we consulted Healthy Women and Everyday Health in order to aggregate our list. We found great information on these sites, which allowed us to compile a list of best forms of permanent birth control with detailed information on each. Our ranking is based on how “easy” the procedure is to complete (surgical vs. non-surgical, etc.).
Continue reading to learn more about the easiest forms of permanent birth control for men and women.
4. The Intrauterine Device (IUD)
There are two types of IUD, the next one on our list of easiest forms of permanent birth control for men and women that you can choose from: the copper IUD or the progestin hormone IUD. Both are a T-shaped device that will be inserted into the uterus by a doctor. The procedure is generally completed without the use of anesthesia, though some doctors do offer the option. Individuals who have given birth vaginally in the past have the easiest insertion experience. The copper IUD can last up to 12 years, while the hormonal IUD can last up to 5 years. This is something to consider based on your family planning needs. Side-effects and concerns to consider include increased cramping, and the need to have the device checked regularly (to ensure proper insertion or assess the need to replace the device). It is imperative to be certain that you are not currently pregnant, on your period, and that you do not have any pelvic infections, prior to insertion of the IUD. The IUD is extremely effective, and semi-permanent, as you can choose to have it removed.
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3. Essure
Just like the IUD, Essure, the number three on our list of easiest forms of permanent birth control for men and women is a non-surgical procedure that can be done right in your doctor’s office, in which a flexible insert or small metal springs will be placed in each of the fallopian tubes. Unlike the IUD, Essure is an entirely permanent, irreversible procedure. After the insertion procedure, a backup form of birth control must be used until the Essure Confirmation Test can be performed. This guarantees that the procedure has indeed served its purpose effectively. Side-effects include light vaginal bleeding and cramping. Some women have had to undergo surgery to remove faulty or incorrectly-inserted devices. Be open to routine check-ups to ensure that your device is placed and functioning properly.
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2. Tubal Ligation
This is the only surgical procedure for people with uteruses on our list of easiest forms of permanent birth control for men and women. Commonly referred to as having your “tubes tied”, tubal litigation is the literal process of a gynecologist or doctor cutting, blocking, or tying the fallopian tubes. There is an option to attempt to reverse this procedure, but the success rates are extremely low. This is a quite permanent option. Side-effects can include pain and a swollen stomach. Interestingly enough, your menstruation will not change as a result of this operation. You will still have a regular period and enter menopause at the same time that you normally would. This is probably the best-known, easiest form of permanent birth control.
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1. Vasectomy
The final permanent birth control option on our list of easiest forms of permanent birth control for men and women is also the only option for people without uteruses: vasectomy. This surgical procedure involves the sealing of the vas deferens to prevent the release of sperm. A backup birth control method should be utilized until a sample can be taken and determined to be sperm-free. There are three options: traditional vasectomy (involves an incision), no-scalpel vasectomy (smaller incision and less bleeding), or Vasclip implant (used to block the sperm, much like Essure, but slightly less reliable than the other methods).
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Thank you for reading our list of easiest forms of permanent birth control for men and women. Remember to consult a doctor to determine which method is best for you.
