Tubal ligation is a type of permanent birth control in which the fallopian tubes are cut, tied, or blocked to permanently prevent pregnancy. Eggs are prevented from traveling from the ovaries through the fallopian tubes, and sperm is blocked from traveling up the fallopian tubes to the egg. The procedure can be done at any time: after childbirth or in combination with another abdominal surgery, such as a C-section.
What To Expect
There are a few different types of tubal ligation that use an incision. While the patient is under anesthesia, one or two small incisions are made in the abdomen to allow a laparoscope to be inserted through the incision. Using instruments that are inserted through the laparoscope or the second incision, the Fallopian tubes are coagulated, cauterized, or obstructed using a small clip. The skin is then closed with stitches.
Non-Surgical Tubal Ligation
There are also non-surgical tubal ligations, which include the Essure System and the Adiana System. The Essure System is a small metallic implant placed into the Fallopian tubes. This does not require an incision or general anesthesia. During the procedure, an obstructive device is inserted into each of the two Fallopian tubes at the time of hysteroscopy. A special catheter is inserted through the vagina into the uterus and then into the Fallopian tube. The device induces scar tissue to form over the implant, therefore blocking the tubes. With the Adiana System, silicone implants are placed in the Fallopian tubes via hysteroscopy, inducing scar tissue in the tubes and blocking sperm from reaching the egg.
After The Procedure
You will be able to return home after a few hours. You will be able to gradually resume your normal diet. You should keep your incision area dry for the next few days. You may gradually resume normal activities after a few days, but avoid heavy lifting for a few weeks. You may return to sexual activity in about one week. Let your doctor know if you experience increasing pain or pain that is not relieved by medicine as well as any drainage, bleeding, redness, or swelling. Report any vomiting, nausea, fever, dizziness, or fainting spells.
NCCRM
The North Carolina Center for Reproductive Medicine (NCCRM) is the premiere center for reproductive health in North Carolina and the East Coast. It was established in 1992 to provide advanced reproductive techniques to couples who dream of having a child of their own. Our team specializes in fertility testing, diagnosis, and treatment of infertility conditions. We’re experts in IVF, Tubal Ligation Reversal, Male Infertility, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), Gestation Surrogacy, Family Balancing and more.
