If your family is already complete with how many kids you always envisioned, you may want to make absolutely certain that you won’t be having any more. Birth control methods like the pill or an IUD may not cut it at this stage in your life.

That’s where tubal ligation comes in. Keep reading below to learn more about this procedure from the experts at Avant Gynecology. 

What is Tubal Ligation?

You’ve likely heard the expression, “getting your tubes tied.” That’s in reference to this form of birth control, also called tubal sterilization. It occurs when the fallopian tubes are either blocked, tied, or cut to permanently prevent pregnancy. 

How does this work? Having a tubal ligation or sterilization blocks an egg from traveling to meet the sperm and also prevents the sperm from traveling to meet the egg, which is the process that fertilizes the egg, often resulting in the creation of a fetus. This is done by cutting off their means of transportation: the fallopian tubes. 

In most cases, tubal ligation is not able to be reversed. Sometimes it is possible to try, but that requires major surgery and the outcome is not guaranteed. 

What’s the Procedure Like?

This procedure is performed under general anesthesia, so patients are not awake during any steps of this process. But, for those of you who are curious, here are the steps of tubal ligation:

• Either a needle is inserted or an incision is made around the belly button. 
• The abdomen is inflated with gas. 
• A laparoscope is put into the abdomen. 
• A second small incision is added so that the doctor can work through the abdominal wall. 
• The fallopian tubes are sealed. 
• The patient is allowed to leave the hospital a few hours after the surgery.

However, these steps might look different if you are getting this procedure done right after, or even during, childbirth. 

When should I consider getting Tubal Ligation?

As we mentioned above, tubal ligation is best for those who are very serious about never having children. While some versions of this surgery are less permanent, it’s not as easy to undo their effects as it is to remove an IUD or stop other forms of birth control. 

Additionally, those who have diabetes, a history of pelvic or abdominal conditions, or obesity should consider other options. Those characteristics lead to a greater risk of complications after the surgery.  

If you have any more questions about tubal ligation or would like to learn more about your options, reach out to the experts at Avant Gynecology by clicking here or by giving us a call at 404-352-2850.