Female Sterilization in India

Abstract

This chapter analyzes sterilization rates across different districts in India. The findings reveal that sterilization rates vary significantly, deviating from traditional indicators such as socioeconomic or educational disparities. Surprisingly, poorer regions like North-East India exhibit low sterilization rates, while wealthier states like Punjab do not show higher sterilization rates despite their better socioeconomic status. On the other hand, demographically advanced southern states have widespread sterilization. These results suggest that local cultural norms regarding acceptable contraceptive methods play a role in determining sterilization chances. The analysis also highlights India’s contraceptive transition, where the population has shifted from low contraceptive use among the poorest to a reliance on sterilization, followed by a gradual disaffection among higher-status groups.

Based on the findings, it is essential to emphasize the need for the government to promote gender equality in family planning methods. Women should be encouraged to explore alternative methods of contraception to avoid health complications and minimize the chances of regret associated with sterilization in case of child loss. Relying solely on female sterilization may no longer be ethical in facilitating fertility transition.