My partner and I are sure we don't want to have [more] children, but I'm not thrilled by the prospect of surgery. What are our alternatives?

Sterilization for people with a uterus and fallopian tubes is pretty safe, but it does require a surgery, but a vasectomy (sterilization for people with a penis and vas deferens) is even lower risk and can be done right in the provider’s office, so you and your partner might want to look into that first.

Still not working?

If you don’t think sterilization is the right choice for you or your partner, but you want something that is just as effective at preventing pregnancy for a long time, you have other options. IUDs, which are extremely effective and last for 3 to 12 years, depending on type, and the implant, which is also extremely effective and lasts for up to five years, are great long-acting birth control options.

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