Sterilization is a process that destroys or eliminates all forms of microbial life. It is different from disinfection, which only kills or removes organisms capable of causing an infection but may not necessarily result in sterilization. Sterilization is important in healthcare facilities, especially for instruments, surgical gloves, and other items that come in direct contact with the bloodstream or normally sterile tissues. There are several methods of sterilization, including:

• Heat: The most commonly used method of sterilization, which can be achieved through pressurized steam or dry heat. Autoclaves and ovens are commonly used for this method.

• Chemicals: Sterilization with chemicals such as glutaraldehydes or formaldehyde solutions is another method. This method uses harmful liquids and toxic gases that do not affect the materials. Sterilization with gas is effective because it can penetrate the material quickly.

• Radiation: Radiation is another method of sterilization, which uses ionizing radiation to destroy microorganisms. However, there are no FDA-cleared ionizing radiation sterilization processes for use in healthcare facilities.

• Filtration: Filtration is the fastest way to sterilize a substance. However, some investigators have questioned whether filtration is a sterilization method because of slight bacterial passage through filters, viral passage through filters, and transference of the sterile filtrate into the final container under aseptic conditions entail a risk of contamination.

Sterilization is a permanent method of birth control for both men and women. Tubal sterilization is a method for women, which closes off or removes the fallopian tubes to prevent the egg from moving down the fallopian tube and keeps the sperm from reaching the egg. Vasectomy is a method for men, which involves cutting or blocking the tubes that carry sperm. Sterilization is considered a safe procedure with few complications.