Introduction
Tubal ligation is a sterilization procedure for women. In this surgical procedure, the fallopian tubes are tied off. The fallopian tubes connect the ovaries to the uterus. Fertilization is possible when the eggs leave the ovaries and travel down the fallopian tubes to the uterus (or womb) where conception can takes place. Tubal ligations prevent pregnancy. It used to be a permanent form of birth control, but doctors have created a surgical method to reverse tubal ligations, though it is not very successful. Because tubal ligation is major surgery, a woman needs to learn all she can about the procedure, the side effects and the long-term effects.
Function
Tubal ligation has two functions. It prevents eggs from entering the uterus where it can be fertilized. It also prevents sperm from entering the fallopian tubes where it can fertilize eggs. This operation has a very high effectiveness rate of 99.5% in the first years. But as the years pass, the effectiveness may diminish because, in some cases, the fallopian tubes re-form, resulting in pregnancy.
Procedure
There are several ways to do a tubal ligation. In a tubal ligation, the fallopian tubes can be burned, cut or tied. Another option is to block the tubes with bands, clips or rings. Doctors usually have a preferred method. There are other options as well. The operation can be done under local or general anesthesia and either as an in-patient or outpatient procedure. The health insurance a woman has may dictate where the surgery is done.
The surgeon makes small incisions in the abdominal area, usually near the navel. The doctor then inserts a laparoscope. This is a narrow tube with a camera at one end. The surgical instruments go through the laparoscope to the pelvic area where the tubes are cauterized or burned, severed, or blocked. Another way to do a tubal ligation is called a laparotomy which is a larger incision in the abdominal area. This is usually done with women who have pelvic disorders that led to scarring such as pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis. A mini-laparotomy has an incision that is less than two inches in length.
Possible Risks and Side Effects
In most married couples who want to prevent future pregnancies, the husband gets a vasectomy. This is a simpler procedure that can be done in a doctor's office and has far few risks. It is also a cheaper procedure. The risks of a tubal ligation are many. There is an increased chance of an ectopic pregnancy, in which the fetus develops in the fallopian tubes. Nearby organs could be damaged by the medical instruments. Some women have an allergic reaction to the medication used for the anesthesia. There is also the possibility of postoperative problems such as bleeding or infection. And there will probably be some discomfort or pain following the procedure. But in many cases, a women can go home after a few hours. Possible side effects include a change in libido and menstrual cycle. But for most women, a tubal ligation poses few problems.
Tags: fallopian tubes, tubal ligation, abdominal area, from entering, side effects