Sterilization in Thailand

Sterilization in Thailand began in the 40ies but the slow progress was due to lack of government support. In 1970 the government declared the population policy that resulted in the development of the tubal resection and vasectomy programs in the governmental hospitals and private sectors. The current total number of sterilizations reaches 200,000 cases annually with female to male ratio of 4:1. Contributions by the government and the private sectors are 80% and 20% respectively. The university hospitals have been involved in programme planning and various studies on sterilization acceptance and development of appropriate technology and delivery system. Sterilization service has been directed to the rural areas where 80% of the Thais live. All efforts are directed towards an objective to reduce the population growth to 1.2 by the end of 1990.