What is the surgical sterilization procedure in which a woman's fallopian tubes are clamped and blocked or severed and sealed?

• A. Vasectomy
• B. Bilateral Tubal Ligation
• C. Hysterectomy
• D. Salpingectomy

Answer: (B)

This question tests understanding of female sterilization by blocking the fallopian tubes. The described approach—clamping and blocking or severing and sealing both fallopian tubes—fits bilateral tubal ligation. By occluding the tubes, sperm can’t meet the egg, preventing fertilization. Techniques include applying clips or bands to clamp the tubes or cutting and sealing the ends (often with cautery). It’s intended to be permanent, though reversal isn’t always possible. This differs from a hysterectomy, which removes the uterus, and from a vasectomy, which is male sterilization. A salpingectomy removes the tubes entirely, which also sterilizes but is not the same as simply occluding them.