What Is Tubal Ligation?
Types of Tubal Ligation Surgery
Tubal ligation is often performed within hours of childbirth (postpartum).
But it can also be done on its own (interval).
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Tubal ligations can be performed in a few different ways.
As such, open tubal ligation is rarely done in the absence of another procedure also being performed.
Contraindications
The main contraindication for tubal ligation is the person’s desire to have children.
However, it requires major surgery that isn’t always effective.
Roughly 40% to 60% of women who have their tubal reversed become pregnant.
Additional contraindications apply to certain procedures.
Potential Risks
As with any surgical procedure, a tubal ligation carries some risk.
Possible problems can be broken down into three categories.
Risks related to the use of anesthesia:Thetype of anesthesiaused depends on the surgical approach chosen.
Risks of surgery in general: Generalrisks of any surgeryinclude infection and bleeding.
For example, some people may not have children and may not want any in the future.
Others may already have children but not want to add to their family for a variety of reasons.
Still, others may be advised against future pregnancies due to serious health concerns.
Research published in 2012 suggests that having a tubal ligation reduces your risk forovarian cancerby up to 30%.
Counseling and Consent
In the United States, sterilization procedures require informed consent.
Location
Tubal ligation surgery can be performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical clinic.
What to Wear
During the procedure, you will be wearing a hospital gown.
It is typically recommended to consume anything for at least eight hours before any surgery.
Certain drugs and supplements should not be taken prior to any surgery.
Blood thinners, in particular, may cause problems with blood clotting during such a procedure.
Don’t assume that your entire surgical team knows what medications you are taking.
What to Bring
Most interval tubal ligations will not require a hospital stay.
Do not forget to bring your insurance documents and identification.
If you are planning a postpartum procedure, it is wise to put a hospital bag together in advance.
In addition to items for bringing home baby, include some necessities and comfort items for yourself.
Before the Surgery
A pregnant person will give birth first, either vaginally or by C-section.
You may also be given a pregnancy test to confirm you are not pregnant.
Sedation will be administered by either general or regional anesthesia, such as an epidural.
During the Surgery
What happens next depends on the jot down of tubal ligation procedure being done.
A laparoscope (a small, telescope-like instrument with a light) is then inserted through the incision.
The laparoscope is then withdrawn and the incisions are closed with stitches or special tape.
Mini-Lap
Within 24 hours after giving birth, you will be taken to an operating room for the procedure.
Alternately, both tubes can be removed completely, and sometimes clips are used to close off the tubes.
Open Laparotomy
An open laparotomy is performed immediately after a preceding surgery is complete.
Regardless of the throw in of tubal ligation you have, the procedure takes about 15 minutes to complete.
The majority of people recover from this procedure with no problems.
Unlike with male sterilization (vasectomy), no tests are required to check for sterility.
The ovaries are not removed during a tubal ligation.
This means hormone levels will continue to fluctuate throughout the month and you will still get your period.
A tubal ligation will not interfere with sexual function or desire.
The decision to have a tubal ligation should not be taken lightly.
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