Female sterilization is the most commonly used contraceptive method, used by an estimated 220 million married women worldwide (about 20%). In contrast, male sterilization is the least used modern contraceptive method. An estimated 33 million married women (less than 3%) rely on their partner's vasectomy for contraception. 

Female sterilization and vasectomy are appropriate methods for women and men who want a highly effective and permanent method of contraception that does not require re-supply or action at the time of sex. With proper counseling and informed consent, any woman can have female sterilization and any man can have vasectomy safely. No medical conditions prevent women or men from being medically eligible to use female sterilization or vasectomy, respectively.

For couples who do not want more children, these permanent methods are important and relevant options for family planning programs to include in their contraceptive method mix. Family planning programmers, providers, and decision makers can use the information in this Permanent Methods Toolkit to ensure the delivery of quality services with broad access and to promote women and men's informed choice.

Members of the Long-Acting and Permanent Methods (LA/PMs) Community of Practice developed this toolkit, under the leadership of EngenderHealth, the Johns Hopkins' Center for Communication Programs, FHI 360, and the U.S. Agency for International Development. This toolkit is part of the LA/PM Toolkit Series, which includes toolkits on Implants, IUDs, and Permanent Methods.