We spend a lot of time talking about how to use the many different forms of birth control to choose whether and when to get pregnant. But what if you never want to be pregnant again, or even pregnant ever? You might be thinking about having your “tubes tied.”

Like cisgender people, transgender and gender nonconforming people are sexually diverse and may be at risk for unplanned pregnancy. Regardless of where you lie on the spectrum, it’s a good idea to discuss your reproductive health needs with your provider.

Vasectomy, a.k.a. male sterilization, is often thought of as the “other” form of sterilization. Female sterilization is much more common, even though vasectomy is just as effective, safer, and costs less. Let’s take a closer look at this misunderstood method.