Childfree Sterilization: What the Research Actually Says About Regret

If you've ever asked a doctor about sterilization as a childfree person, you've probably heard some version of: "You're too young. You'll regret it."

But what does the research actually say? Let's look at the data.

The Regret Myth

The fear of regret is the most common reason doctors cite for denying sterilization to childfree patients. But here's what studies actually show:

Only about 1% of childfree women who obtain sterilization report regret. That's dramatically lower than the often-cited 20% regret rate—which comes from studies of women who had children before sterilization.

The distinction matters. People who are certain they don't want children are fundamentally different from people who've completed their families.

What the Studies Found

A 2023 study published in Psychology of Women Quarterly compared childfree individuals who obtained sterilization with those who were denied:

• Those who obtained sterilization reported higher self-esteem
• They experienced better sexual quality of life
• They showed higher overall psychological well-being

Notably, age didn't predict these outcomes. Whether someone was 25 or 35 when sterilized made no difference in their satisfaction.

The Real Regret

Here's what researchers found that doctors rarely mention: being denied sterilization is associated with worse outcomes than obtaining it.

People who wanted sterilization but were refused reported:

• Lower well-being
• More frustration with healthcare
• Continued anxiety about unwanted pregnancy

The assumption that "waiting" protects people from regret isn't supported by evidence.

Why Doctors Still Say No

Despite the research, many physicians remain reluctant to perform sterilization on childfree patients. Common reasons include:

• Pronatalist bias: The assumption that everyone should want children
• Paternalism: Believing they know better than the patient
• Fear of liability: Concern about being blamed if someone changes their mind
• Outdated training: Medical education that hasn't kept pace with research

Finding the Right Provider

If you're seeking sterilization, know that you have options:

1. Be direct: State clearly that you've researched this decision thoroughly
2. Document your request: If denied, ask for it to be noted in your medical record
3. Seek specialists: Some gynecologists specifically welcome childfree patients
4. Know your rights: In most places, you have the right to this procedure if you're a legal adult

The Bottom Line

The data is clear: childfree people who obtain sterilization are overwhelmingly satisfied with their decision. The regret narrative isn't supported by evidence—it's a reflection of cultural assumptions about what people "should" want.

You know yourself better than anyone. Trust that.