Which term refers to the permanent contraceptive methods like tubal ligation or vasectomy?

The term that refers to permanent contraceptive methods such as tubal ligation or vasectomy is sterilization. This medical procedure is designed to provide a long-term solution to prevent pregnancy by surgically altering the reproductive organs. In tubal ligation, a woman's fallopian tubes are cut, tied, or blocked to prevent eggs from reaching the uterus, while in a vasectomy, a man's vas deferens is cut or sealed to prevent sperm from mixing with semen. These methods effectively eliminate the possibility of conception and are intended to be permanent, although some surgical procedures can be reversed, they are not guaranteed to restore fertility.

The other options represent different forms of contraception that do not offer a permanent solution. Temporary birth control refers to methods that are effective only while in use, such as condoms or birth control pills. Reversible contraception includes methods that can be stopped and may allow for the return of fertility, like hormonal birth control or intrauterine devices (IUDs). Spermicidal methods involve chemical agents that kill sperm and are typically used in conjunction with barrier methods or alone for temporary prevention of pregnancy. Each of these options serves a different purpose and does not achieve the goal of permanent sterilization.