Tubal Ligation: Gul A. Zikria, MD, FACOG: Obstetrics, Gynecology, Infertility & Menopause

What is Tubal Ligation?

Tubal ligation, also known as tubal sterilization or tubectomy, is a form of permanent female birth control. Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure used to prevent pregnancy by stopping sperm from reaching the egg.

Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure that may eliminate the need for any other methods of contraception. Tubal ligation is considered permanent, although it can be reversed in certain cases. Because of this, it is only recommended for women who are certain they are finished having children.

Some women have a higher risk factor for tubal ligation and may not be ideal candidates. This can include women who:

Have had previous abdominal or pelvic surgery

Are obese or dramatically overweight

Have diabetes or inflammatory diseases

Tubal ligation is mostly recommended for older women, as very young women risk a higher chance of pregnancy.

How Does Tubal Ligation Work?

Tubal ligation targets the fallopian tubes, the part of the female reproductive system from which the procedure gets its name. These tubes play a key role in sperm traveling to the egg, resulting in a pregnancy.

To prevent this, the tubal ligation procedure seals the fallopian tubes by removing small segments and replacing them with plastic rings or clips. Eventually, the body's natural scar tissue takes over and seals the fallopian tubes.

There are two primary varieties of tubal ligation :

Laparoscopic tubal ligation: This is the most common tubal ligation procedure. In this form of tubectomy, two small incisions are made and a device known as a laparoscope is inserted to make the necessary adjustments.

Abdominal tubal ligation: In this type of tubectomy, sometimes known as an open tubal ligation , a larger incision is made on the abdomen and the surgery is performed traditionally. Abdominal tubal ligation is typically done for women who have recently given birth or suffer from pelvic inflammation.

After the surgery is complete, there will be some recovery time. Pain and cramping is to be expected during this period. After a few weeks, regular activity can resume.

Regardless of the method, tubal ligation is considered a permanent procedure. It can be reversed in very rare cases, although this is not always effective.

Author

Gul A. Zikria, MD, FACOG As an expert in preventive care, innovative treatment solutions, and laparoscopic surgery, board-certified OB/GYN Gul A. Zikria, MD, FACOG, is a trusted practitioner who’s been in private practice since 1985. Dr. Zikria earned his doctor of medicine from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in Newark. He went on to complete a competitive surgical residency program at Georgetown University in Washington. Dr. Zikria then went through a comprehensive obstetrics and gynecology residency program through the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center at the Magee-Women’s Hospital. He welcomes new and existing patients to his practice in Milpitas, California.

Breast Lift vs Breast Augmentation: Deciding Which is Right for You

The decision to undergo any elective surgery is complex. With the body-shaping options available through breast lifts and augmentations, there’s plenty to think about. Understanding the targets of each procedure helps you decide what’s best for you.

Winter is the Best Time for Resurfacing Your Skin With Fractional CO2 Laser Therapy

There’s no better time than winter to book your laser skin resurfacing treatment. While the procedure helps to correct many effects of skin aging, your skin is even more vulnerable to sun damage for months after your treatment.

Am I a Candidate for Vaginoplasty?

Vaginal rejuvenation is a growing trend for both practical and cosmetic reasons. While there’s no “normal” appearance or structure for women’s genitalia, some suffer negative effects as they get older. Here’s when vaginoplasty may be helpful for you.

Tubal Ligation Reversal: What You Need to Know

Tubal ligation is one of the most effective forms of contraception, and it’s intended to be permanent. In some cases, however, the original procedure can be reversed when changes in your life make additional pregnancies desirable.

Five Great Benefits of a Labiaplasty

Time takes its toll on your body, and your genitalia are no different. Pregnancy, childbirth, and even tissue change can alter the shape and appearance of your labia, causing a wide range of issues. When it’s a problem, labiaplasty may be the answer.

Tubal Ligation Reversal Procedures are Possible for Women Who are Reconsidering Having Children

While intended as a permanent birth control procedure, tubal ligation is often reversible, depending on your age, physical condition, and the type of procedure you had done. Using contemporary surgical techniques, you may recover your fertility.