Tubal Ligation Specialist

What is tubal ligation?

Tubal ligation permanently prevents pregnancy by blocking off your fallopian tubes. The procedure may involve:

• Removing the fallopian tubes
• Clamping the tubes
• Cutting and tying the tubes with special thread
• Closing the tubes with bands or clips
• Sealing the tubes with an electric current

Tubal ligation is highly effective and has a very slim chance of failure, but there is a remote risk of pregnancy occurring. OB/GYNs do not consider it a reversible procedure because surgery, although possible, has a low chance of success.

How does tubal ligation work?

In order for fertilization to occur, your partner's sperm has to reach one of your eggs. Your ovaries release eggs each month, which travel down the fallopian tubes, ready to meet any sperm that are present.

By blocking the fallopian tubes using tubal ligation, there's no way for the sperm to connect with an egg, so fertilization can't take place.

Why should I consider tubal ligation?

Tubal ligation is worth considering when you're sure you don't want to have any more children or you don't wish to have children at all.

Other forms of birth control can be very effective in preventing unwanted pregnancy, but you may prefer the idea of a permanent solution. The advantage of tubal ligation is that you don't have to remember to take a pill or worry about using a cap or sponge when you have sex.

You can pretty much forget all about taking any precautions to prevent pregnancy – although it's still a good idea to use condoms to prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) unless you're in a monogamous relationship.

What does the tubal ligation procedure involve?

Before you undergo tubal ligation, it's important to be sure you're not pregnant, so your OB/GYN might advise you to use birth control for at least a month in advance of the operation.

The Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, team can perform tubal ligation in two ways:

Laparoscopic tubal ligation

This form of tubal ligation requires small incisions in your abdomen through which your OB/GYN inserts a laparoscope – a slim tube with a camera on the end. Using the images sent back by the laparoscope, your OB/GYN can perform the ligation without needing to make any large incisions. Laparoscopic tubal ligation is typically an outpatient procedure.

Minilaparotomy

Minilaparotomy is a minimally invasive option if you wish to have tubal ligation after giving birth.

If you're considering sterilization, discuss your options with the team at Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, and find the one that's best for you. Call or book an appointment online today.