Tubal Ligation
Written by Jane Carrasco
Tubal Ligation-Permanent Birth Control
A tubal ligation procedure is usually recommended for adult women who are certain that they do not want to get pregnant in the future. Since tubal ligation is considered a permanent birth control method, a woman must be sure of her choice, though reversal surgeries have been possible. This method can offer extremely effective pregnancy protection for women throughout the rest of their reproductive years.
A tubal ligation, or more commonly referred to as having ones "tubes tied," is a surgical sterilization procedure in which the fallopian tubes are sealed, preventing the egg from reaching the uterus. This operation can be performed laparoscopically or in conjunction with a Cesarean section, after a baby is delivered. Tubal ligation is considered permanent but reversals have been done effectively.
Laparoscopic Tubal Ligation
During the laparoscopic procedure, in a hospital or outpatient clinic, the woman is sedated and two incisions are made in the lower abdomen The upper incision is for the laparoscope, (light so the doctor can see), and the lower incision is for the forceps. A tubal ligation can be done by one of three methods:
- Cutting and electrocauterizing (burning) the tube ends
- Cutting and tying off the tube ends
- Pinching off the tube in a loop with a band
Mini-Laparotomy
There is also a procedure called the mini-laparotomy which requires just one cut be made in the pubic area. This type of surgery is performed with different incisions, but the tubes are tied off in the same manner as with a laparoscopic surgery;? tied, cauterized or banded. This diagram above shows where the incision is made, and the dotted lines on the fallopian tubes show where the tubes are closed.
Postpartum Tubal Ligation
A postpartum tubal ligation procedure involves an incision near the belly button,rather than in the pubic area. After childbirth, the uterus is enlarged from the pregnancy, forcing the fallopian tubes higher into the abdomen. The image above indicates where the incisions are made during a postpartum tubal ligation.
Note: There are women who get pregnant after a tubal ligation. Pregnancy may occur if:
Recovering From A Tubal Ligation:
Most tubal ligations are done as outpatient surgery, which means you will most likely go home the same day. Your surgeon will give you instructions on what to expect and when to call after the surgery.
# You can usually have sexual intercourse within 1 week of the surgery, or as soon as you feel like it, with no backup method of birth control.
# Avoid rubbing or pulling on your incision in the shower for at least a week. Remember to wait 24 hours after the surgery to bathe.
# You should be able to resume all activities within a week, but rest is needed after the surgery.
The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. The content provided is intended strictly for informational purposes to help patient understanding of medical terms and conditions.