PIP: In developing countries the mean cost of sterilization is $7.80 for men and $22 for women. In the United States the average cost is $150 and $586, respectively, in the private sector, and $50 and $168 in the public sector. Hospitalization adds greatly to the physicians' and anesthetists' fees. Medicaid reimburses for sterilizations in 36 states, but because of low income ceilings for eligibility, most of the medically indigent are not guaranteed coverage. Blue Cross generally covers sterilization, but in certain plans it is excluded. Coverage is better for vasectomy, interval tubal ligation, and hysterectomy than for postpartum associated sterilizations, since maternity benefits are less adequate than general surgery benefits.