Current status of sterilization.

About 50 per cent of child bearing women in Australia are being sterilized. The selection of patients for the procedure requires careful counseling in order to avoid the risk of regret. Factors increasing the risk of regret are enumerated. Laparoscopy is the most popular method for sterilization, but mini laparotomy is a reasonable alternative for patients not having access to skilled laparoscopists. Clips and rings provide a greater chance of successful reversal of sterilization, and are recommended for use in younger women. The sequelae of sterilization are slight, with failure of technique, infection and temporary regret being the commonest. Serious psychological or physical sequelae are rare. If reversal is required the microsurgical technique is recommended.