Tubal Ligation

Tubal Ligation Q & A

What is tubal ligation?

Tubal ligation or sterilization is a procedure where your OB/GYN at Women’s Health Domain blocks your Fallopian tubes to permanently prevent pregnancy. They cut the fallopian tubes and place coils inside that your tissues grow around or clamp the tubes to close them.

You might want to consider tubal ligation if you definitely don’t want children or you have children and want to make sure you don’t get pregnant again. Unlike most forms of birth control, tubal ligation is usually irreversible. Attempting to reverse the process involves undergoing another surgical procedure, but there’s no guarantee of success.

Tubal ligation is effective for most women, but there’s still a very slim chance of pregnancy afterward. Pregnancy is more likely in younger women, and tubal ligation is more common in older women, so pregnancy after sterilization is unlikely.

Is tubal ligation right for me?

Because tubal ligation is a permanent form of birth control, your OB/GYN at Women’s Health Domain has an in-depth discussion with you about your reasons for wanting the procedure. Issues you need to consider include unforeseen changes in your relationship and the risks involved in having surgery.

You might want to consider a long-term form of contraception instead, like a copper IUD (intrauterine device), which can stay in your uterus for ten years. If you’re sure tubal ligation is the right choice after discussing it with your OB/GYN, they will recommend the best time for your procedure.

What does tubal ligation involve?

Your OB/GYN at Women’s Health Domain has several options when performing tubal ligation. Traditionally, open surgery was necessary to access your fallopian tubes. However, less invasive options are now available that don’t require large abdominal incisions.

One option is a mini-laparotomy, where your OB/GYN makes a small cut under your belly button. They insert a laparoscope, a slim instrument fitted with a camera, and view the camera’s feed to complete the surgery. Another option, accessing your fallopian tubes through your vagina and cervix, doesn’t require any incisions at all.

If you’re pregnant, you might be able to have your tubal ligation after the delivery.

If you’re looking for an effective, permanent solution to preventing pregnancy, talk to the OB/GYNs at Women’s Health Domain. Call their office or book an appointment online today.