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Tubal Sterilization

Tubal Sterilization (also called “having your tubes tied”) is a form of permanent birth control.  If you are 100 percent certain that you don’t want to give birth to a child in the future, one of these procedures may be right for you.

How Does Tubal Sterilization Work?

With tubal sterilization, your fallopian tubes are cut, tied, removed, or blocked to prevent pregnancy. This procedure prevents an egg from moving through your fallopian tubes for fertilization, and it blocks sperm from traveling up the fallopian tubes to the egg.

How are Tubal Sterilization Procedures Performed?

Tubal ligation can be done at any time.  Very commonly it is performed after vaginal childbirth by making a small incision at your umbilicus (belly button).  It can also be performed during a Cesarean delivery without any additional incisions.  In both of these procedures, a portion of the tube is removed.  For women who want this procedure done at a time other than at childbirth, it can be performed minimally invasively using a laparoscope.  A small incision is made in your umbilicus and a camera is placed through a thin tube into your abdomen. Then, a second incision is made above your pubic bone and a ring or clip is placed around the tube.

There is also a brand name of a type of sterilization called Essure®.  Essure® does not require a laparoscopy and may be performed as an in-office procedure.  This procedure involves inserting a camera into your uterus and placing small titanium springs into the fallopian tubes; the tubal tissue grows through the springs and blocks them.

Deciding to Have a Tubal Sterilization

Because tubal ligation is considered permanent, you must be entirely sure that this is the right form of birth control for you.  Some reasons to consider tubal ligation:

  • Your family is complete and you don’t want to have any more children
  • You’re concerned about the side effects of other forms of birth control and don’t want to have any more children
  • Your health would be endangered by a future pregnancy
  • You don’t want to pass on a hereditary illness

Can Tubal Sterilization Be Reversed?

Surgical reversal requires complex surgery and costs a great deal and is not covered by any insurance.  And for many women, there are simply not enough of their tubes left to reconnect after tubal ligation.  So if you’re thinking about reversal surgery in the future, tubal ligation may not be the right birth control choice for you right now.

Questions about Tubal Sterilization and Birth Control?

Considering all the birth control options available to you is important.  Here at Women’s Health, we want you to understand your choices and help you make the decision that’s right for you.

We’re glad to answer any questions you may have. Simply contact us.

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