You're right! Female sterilization is the only type of contraception that is permanent. This means that once you have the procedure, you will never be able to become pregnant. It is important to know and understand the risks before being sterilized. Hormonal implants last for up to three years; each hormonal injection lasts for either one month or three months; and the intra-uterine device lasts for 10 years (copper) or 5 years (progesterone).