Tubal Ligation is a Permanent Sterilization Procedure
Tubal Ligation is a Safe, Effective and Permanent Form of Contraception
Tubal ligation for women seeking out a safe, effective, permanent and convenient
form of contraception, may be a good option. The most common form of surgical
sterilization procedure used for women today is called a tubal ligation, often
referred to as "having your tubes tied". A tubal ligation procedure prevents the
egg and sperm from meeting and you from becoming pregnant.
Tubal ligation is a permanent and highly effective form of birth control. If you
have the desired number of children and never will desire more, permanent
sterilization is worth considering.
A tubal ligation typically is performed via a small incision in your belly
button . It can either be performed after delivery or at a latter time. When a
tubal ligation is performed after delivery it is called a post-partum tubal
ligation and does not require laparoscopy. If you have a tubal ligation and you
are not pregnant, it is usually performed by laparoscopic surgery. All forms of
tubal ligation require either burning, cutting, clamping or tying the mid
section of your fallopian tubes.
Deciding On Your Future Before Tubal Ligation
Deciding to be sterilized is a life changing and permanent decision. A tubal
ligation sterilization procedure means that you and your partner will not be
able to have children at any point in the future, thus it requires a great deal
of forethought and consideration prior to commencement.
Tubal ligation is considered a permanent procedure and not performed if you have
any doubt about further child bearing capabilities. Reversing the surgery is
possible, but requires major surgical intervention, and is not always
successful.
There are many alternatives to permanent sterilization in women. Men can also
undergo a vasectomy. Reversible forms of contraception including birth control
pills, condoms, use of a diaphragm, intrauterine device (IUD), intavaginal ring
or hormone injections are also available.
Regrets Following Tubal Ligation
Up to 25 percent of women regret having a tubal ligation at some point after the
procedure. Despite this less than 2 percent seek out a reversal.
Generally women who regret the procedure are often those that experience a
change in marital status over their lifetime. Others that experience regret are
typically young in age at the time they are sterilized.
Timing of the Tubal Ligation Procedure
Tubal ligation is usually performed with in the first 24 hours after delivery.
The greater the delay between the procedure and delivery, increase the
difficulty of the surgery and the risk of infection. If you are not pregnant, a
tubal ligation can safely be performed during your period or shortly afterwards
in order to avoid the risk of being pregnancy at the time of the procedure.
Various Approaches to Surgical Sterilization
There are several different approaches to performing a tubal ligation, including
the following:
Minilaparotomy - this is a procedure commonly used postpartum, where
a small incision is made in the belly button so the sterilization can be
performed on the fallopian tubes.
Laparoscopic sterilization - this is the most common method of
surgical sterilization where a small incision is made near the belly button
and in the lower abdomen. The physician may use rings or clips to close the
fallopian tubes or seal them.
Vaginal sterilization - occurs when tubal sterilization is conducted
through the vagina. Infrequently used today.
Hysteroscopic sterilization - this is a minimally invasive procedure
that is not currently commonly used in the United States.
The risks of complications due to a bilateral tubal ligation are relatively
minimal, but may include infection, bleeding or blood clots. Some women who
undergo a bilateral tubal ligation will have more menstrual pain and have more
cramping during menstruation. Some women may also complain of more irregular
cycles than non-sterilized women. The majority of women after a tubal ligation
have no problems at all and have peace of mind that their childbearing days are
over.
Tubal sterilization is considered the most effective method of contraception.
Only 1 percent of women who are surgically sterilized become pregnant after the
procedure, and this generally occurs in women who have the procedure done at a
young age.
After surgery you may go home with in a few hours. There will be minimal
discomfort and cramping that is relieved by pain medications. You may notice
some shoulder pain as well, this is expected and not to worry. You should return
to normal activities within a few days.
Common Questions About Bilateral Tubal Ligation:
What is a tubal ligation?
A tubal ligation is a surgical procedure that requires an incision on your
abdomen. Your fallopian tubes are burn, tied or clamped in order to prevent the
meeting of the egg and sperm. Tubal ligation causes your fallopian tubes to be
blocked, so no fertilization takes place and you do not have to worry about
pregnancy.
Is a tubal ligation reversible?
It may be possible to have your tubal ligation reversed, but only 60 to 80
percent of women are able to conceive after the procedure. If you do conceive
you are at a higher risk for an ectopic pregnancy (tubal pregnancy).
How effective is a tubal ligation at preventing pregnancy?
The chance of you becoming pregnant in the first year following a tubal ligation
is less than 1 percent. The failure rate increases with the length of time from
the procedure. The failure rate is as high as 5 percent after 10 years.
Does a tubal ligation help prevent sexually transmitted diseases?
No, a tubal ligation does not protect you against sexually transmitted diseases
(STDS).
If you are considering a bilateral tubal ligation, remember that it is important
that you consult with your health care provider to determine your overall health
status. Surgical sterilization is a permanent and for the most part irreversible
procedure.
It is also a very convenient, generally safe and effective method of permanent
contraception for women desiring sterilization.
