Tubal Ligation
Definition
Tubal ligation is a sterilization procedure in which a woman's fallopian tubes are tied into a loop and then cut.
Description
This operation, which prevents an egg and sperm from meeting and reaching the uterus, is usually done through an abdominal incision, often following delivery of what the couple would like to be their last child. The resulting sterilization is considered permanent, although it has been known to be reversed. In males, the tying of the sperm ducts to achieve sterilization is known as vasectomy. After sterilization, women continue to menstruate and produce female hormones, and their sexual functioning is unaffected. The surgery does not change a woman's skin, breasts, or weight, nor does it affect the vagina, uterus, or ovaries. An egg cell is still released every month, and enters the nearby fallopian tube. The egg cell stops, however, where the tube has been closed, then disintegrates and is absorbed by the body.
Questions
What type of procedure do you use for tubal ligation? What type of anesthesia method do you use? Will there be any discomfort after the surgery? Will you be prescribing any medication for the pain? What are the side effects? Are stitches used? and when are they removed? Can this procedure be reversed if the couple decides to have another child? Can you explain what causes a failure of the operation and pregnancy? What signs and symptoms after surgery should be reported?
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