Tubal Sterilization
Tubal sterilization is a surgical procedure that permanently prevents pregnancy. It works by closing off or removing the fallopian tubes, which carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. This blockage prevents sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg.
This procedure is also commonly known as “getting your tubes tied” or “having a tubal”. It is a highly effective form of birth control, with a success rate of over 99%.
Important Note: Tubal sterilization is considered permanent. Our office utilizes a salpingectomy procedure. This means the entire fallopian tube is removed and therefore cannot be reversed. This is our preferred method, as it offers the greatest success rate and decreases the risk of ovarian cancer.
If other methods, such as using bands, clips, heat (cauterization), or by cutting and tying a small sectionWhile reversal procedures exist, they are complex, expensive, and not always successful. Our office does not offer these procedures.
You should be completely sure that you do not want to become pregnant in the future before choosing this option.
Procedure Performed?
There are several ways to perform a tubal sterilization, and your provider will discuss which method is best for you.
This is a minimally invasive surgery. The surgeon makes one or two small incisions in the abdomen (usually near the belly button). A thin, lighted camera (laparoscope) is inserted to see the fallopian tubes. The tubes are then removed. This is typically done as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia.
This is the complete removal of the fallopian tubes. This method is becoming more common as it may significantly lower the risk of developing a specific type of ovarian cancer later in life. This can be done laparoscopically or at the time of a C-section.
The most common approaches are:
Right Choice for Me?
The decision to have a tubal sterilization is a very personal one. We encourage you to discuss your feelings with your partner and family, and to consider all other birth control options, including long-acting reversible methods like IUDs and implants.
We are here to answer all of your questions so you can feel confident and comfortable with your choice.
Key Things to Know
Tubal sterilization will not affect your hormones or stop your monthly period. You will continue to ovulate and have menstrual cycles until you reach menopause naturally.
This procedure does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You should continue to use condoms to protect your health.
While very effective, no birth control method is 100%. With a salpingectomy (completely removing the fallopian tube), the risk of getting pregnant is highly unlikely – it is less than 1%. However, with other sterilization methods, in the rare event that the procedure fails, there is a higher risk of an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy outside the uterus), which is a medical emergency.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery depends on the type of procedure you have.
- You will likely go home the same day. You must have someone to drive you home.
- You may experience some pain at the incision site, abdominal cramping, bloating, or shoulder pain (from the gas used during laparoscopy).
- Most people can return to normal activities, including work, within a few days to a week.
- Most people can return to normal activities, including work, within a few days to a week. Your provider will give you specific instructions about wound care, pain management, and when it is safe to resume exercise and sexual activity (usually after 1-2 weeks).
Risks and Potential Complications
Tubal sterilization is a safe procedure, but like any surgery, it has potential risks. These are rare but can include:
- Risks related to general anesthesia.
- Infection or bleeding at the incision site.
- Injury to nearby organs like the bladder, intestines, or blood vessels.
- Failure of the procedure, leading to an unintended pregnancy.
When to Call the Clinic
If you miss a period or have symptoms of pregnancy at any time in the future, please contact us right away to rule out an ectopic pregnancy.
- Please call our office immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms after your procedure:
- Fever over 100.4°F (38°C).
- Severe or worsening abdominal pain that is not relieved by medication.
- Redness, swelling, or pus draining from your incision.
- Heavy vaginal bleeding.
- Persistent nausea or vomiting.
- Fainting or dizziness.