Tubal ligation (colloquially known as “tying one’s tubes”) is a surgical procedure which seals closed a woman’s fallopian tubes, causing sterility.

What Is The Indication for Tubal Ligation?

Tubal ligation is indicated in women who wish to prevent pregnancy via surgical sterilization.

Am I a Candidate for Tubal Ligation?

You may be a good candidate for tubal ligation if:

• You are a female who wishes not to have children.
• Your partner cannot, or does not wish to have, a vasectomy.
• Other forms of contraception are not safe alternatives for yourself or your partner.
• You may be concerned about passing on a genetic disease or hereditary disability.
• You want to enjoy sex without the fear of unwanted pregnancy.
• You prefer a permanent method of contraception as opposed to methods which rely on regular administration of medications or use of barrier methods.

What Does Tubal Ligation Surgery Involve?

The fallopian tubes transport eggs from the ovaries to the uterus, so the pathway needs to be interrupted to prevent pregnancy. Nowadays, the surgical approach to this procedure is almost always laparoscopic, and can be performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with conscious sedation.

The surgery itself is classically done using a ligature (the Pomeroy procedure) to isolate a loop of the tube; this loop between each end of the ligature is cut. The result is two sealed ends which do not connect to each other. This procedure is done twice – once for each fallopian tube. The same result can be achieved using electrocautery (the application of electric current to burn away the tissue.

What Are The Advantages Of Tubal Ligation Surgery?

With this procedure, the worry about contraception is eliminated, and it is permanent, although sometimes, the surgery can be reversed if desired.

How Long Does It Take?

The operation usually takes only about 30 minutes.

How Many Treatments Are Required?

Only one treatment is required.

When Will I See Results?

You will see results immediately, in that you will be sterile right away.

What Are My Alternatives?

There are many alternative forms of contraception. These include:

• Oral contraceptives (birth-control pills)
• Implantable contraceptives, e.g. Depo-Provera
• Injectable contraceptives
• Diaphragms
• Spermicides
• IUDs (intrauterine devices)
• Male Condoms
• Female Condoms
• Vasectomy

Before deciding on tubal ligation, it is worth discussing the options with your physician. Couples also have the option of male sterilization (vasectomy), which is simpler to perform than tubal ligation.

Will I Have Pain?

Anesthetic is used during the procedure, so pain should be not be a major issue.

When Can I Go Back To Work Or School?

Usually after a few days, you will be able to return to work or school.

Who Will Perform My Treatment?

The surgery will be performed by one of our highly-trained gynecologists.

How Much Does Tubal Ligation Cost?

Please call TopSurgeons at 800-506-8084 for more information.

Will My Insurance Cover Tubal Ligation?

Most insurance companies cover tubal ligation. However, you should check with your insurance company to determine whether or not this procedure is covered.