Tubal Ligation

Tubal Ligation (also referred to as 'having your tubes tied') describes a surgical procedure in which a woman's fallopian tubes are severed or sealed, as a form of sterilization, in order to prevent fertilization and pregnancy.

The fallopian tubes are part of the female reproductive system which connect the uterus to the ovaries and are used for the movement of the eggs once a month. This procedure was designed to stop the eggs from traveling from the ovaries into the fallopian tubes and then be fertilized there by the male sperm following intercourse.

This procedure is considered to be a permanent method of birth control for women. There are reversal procedures, but successful rates aren't that high (50 to 80 percent success rate), so women must realize that this surgery is intended to leave them permanently sterile and take this under consideration.

Tubal Ligation Video

Tubal Ligation Surgery

There are several options for having this procedure done and the surgeon will reach a decision upon patient's preferences and different circumstances. These methods include the following:

• Clips or Rings – The surgeon will use a contraption (a band, clip or ring) to inhibit blood flow to the portion, causing a small amount of scarring or fibrosis, in turn, preventing fertilization.
• Electrocauterizing – The surgeon cuts the tubes and then uses electricity for burning the tube ends.
• Partial Salpingectomy – Involves the cutting and tying off the tube ends.

All of these methods are effective and can be done through different surgical options. The two most common are laparoscopy and mini-laparotomy. A laparoscopic tubal ligation is a minimal invasive procedure done through very small incisions and the use of a laparoscope (a long, thin telescope-like surgical instrument for the abdomen and pelvis) this leaving minimal scars and skin trauma.

A mini-laparotomy is an open surgery involving a single incision, larger than the holes done for the laparoscopy, which is made just above the pubic bone or under the navel. A larger incision, or laparotomy, is rarely used today.

This procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis as the patient will be released on the day of the procedure, a few hours later. It is recommended patients do not undertake strenuous exercise for a few days and will be prescribed pain medication if needed. It is possible for patients to engage in sexual intercourse about 1 week after the operation, or when they feel ready.

Tubal Ligation Abroad

If you have decided you want to undergo a tubal ligation, or want to enquire about having this procedure abroad, TicketMed representatives will be happy to assist you as we work with the top gynecological specialists and clinics around the globe. Please feel free to contact us or ask for a quote.