Female sterilization. Artwork of the female reproductive organs showing the method of female sterilization. Female sterilization is a surgical procedure in which the fallopian tubes are sealed or cut. Fallopian tubes (indicated by arrows) serve to transport the ovum (egg) from the ovary (round, close to tubes) to the uterus (below). They also convey sperm from the uterus toward the ovary to enable fertilization to take place. Cutting the fallopian tubes and securing both ends with ligatures (inset in box) prevents sperm from reaching the ova, and thus prevents pregnancy. The fallopian tubes can also be sealed by clipping, constriction or cauterization (not shown here).