Tubal ligation is a method of sterilization that is used by nearly 40 percent of married couples. It is usually a permanent form of birth control. Some women, however, later change their mind about becoming pregnant. These women then have three options:
The choice between a tubal reversal or in vitro fertilization depends on the woman's age, method of tubal ligation, finances, and the patient's desires. Age is an important factor because there is less success with in vitro fertilization after age 40.
The method used for the initial tubal ligation will affect the success of the reversal. All forms of tubal ligation destroy some of the tube, whether done by rings, clips, or sutures. During the reversal, the damaged portion is removed and the good parts are sutured back together. An adequate length of tube is needed to re-attach the tube.
Once the decision is made to have a reversal, the patient and her partner will need a few tests. The tests estimate whether they will have success once the tubes are reconnected. They include a sperm count for the man and some basic fertility tests for the woman. A doctor who is specially trained in the microscopic technique should do the surgery.
The patient can expect to take 1-2 days to recover with two to four weeks of reduced activities at home. The success rate varies from person to person, and doctor to doctor. The pregnancy rate after a tubal reversal is around 70 percent, with a 1 to 5 percent chance of a tubal pregnancy after this surgery. A tubal pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg abnormally attaches itself to grow inside one of the tubes instead of the uterus.
Check with your health insurance company about the cover for a tubal reversal. Reversing a tubal ligation is a difficult decision, so use all the information available and ask appropriate questions before making a final decision.
Article #4539
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