Tubal ligation is a method of sterilization that is used by nearly 40 percent of married couples. It is a simple, safe, and effective permanent birth control method for women.
Sterilization is a serious decision that is made voluntarily. Anyone considering this should be well informed and understand that it is permanent, and yet not totally 100 percent effective.
Each method has a small failure rate that needs to be understood. Be sure you understand the process, risks, and alternatives before going ahead with a permanent method.
Tubal ligation is a minor surgery that can be done at any time, even after a birth of a baby or after an abortion. During the procedure, an area of the uterine tubes is blocked or destroyed, preventing sperm from reaching the egg.
All surgical procedures include risks related to anaesthesia, infection, and bleeding. Whatever procedure is used will depend on your situation and body.
Many tubal ligation procedures are done using an instrument called a laparoscope. This instrument is passed through an incision made just below the belly button. Often another small cut is placed at the pubic hairline to allow another instrument to be used. The second device can burn, cut, or place clips or loops on the tubes. Extra damage done by these instruments is possible and considered a risk during surgery.
Once the surgery is complete, small, dissolving sutures are placed in the cuts and steri-strips are applied. Patients are usually released a few hours after their surgery to recover for a day or two at home. Pain relief may be required and a temporary light diet may be suggested.
The main benefit of having a tubal ligation is the comfort of knowing you no longer need to worry about using another method of birth control.
Other options for women include all short-term methods of birth control, such as the pill, IUD, barrier methods, and hormone injections. A vasectomy is a permanent birth control option for men.
Article #4537
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