Tubal Ligation - Know Pro's & Con's Of It!

Tubal ligation involves a surgical procedure in which the fallopian tubes of a woman are either cut or tied. The procedure is aimed at preventing the passage of eggs from the ovaries to the fallopian tubes, where they are usually fertilized by a sperm. A gynaecologist is the one who performs the surgery, and it is a permanent birth control method for women.

Tubal Ligation Methods

The different ways in which tubal ligation can be done are:

1. Laparoscopy (Double puncture laparoscopic tubal ligation) DPL: This is usually done with general anaesthesia wherein surgical tools and viewing instruments are inserted through two small incisions made in the abdomen and then the tubes are clipped.

2. A Postpartum tubal ligation and interval tubal ligation/tubectomy: This is usually done within 24-36 hours of childbirth. The fallopian tubes are at a higher position after childbirth, so a small incision is made under the belly button and the tubes are stitched closed.

Expectations after Surgery

1. You will need no more birth control backup method after the surgery.
2. The gas used during the surgery might still be left inside your stomach; as a result, your stomach might be a bit swollen as a result, but it goes away usually in one or two days.
3. You should make sure not to rub or disturb the incision for about a week while you take a bath.

How well does Tubal Ligation work?

A tubal ligation is a form of permanent birth control as it is quite efficient in stopping the passage of eggs to the fallopian tubes. Statistics show that about 1-2 out of 1000 women run the chance of pregnancy after the surgery; an acceptable failure rate for the procedure.

Possible risk factors

There are no major complications in the case of tubal ligation. But there are certain risks which should be considered:

1. Minor risks-Either wound separation or infection.
2. Major risks-There can be some cases of blood loss or organ injury due to severe adhesions.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Tubal Ligation 

Being a  method of birth control, it allows you to be sexually active without the anxiety of pregnancy.

Tubal ligation doesn't stop you from contracting sexually transmitted diseases, so make sure to protect yourselves against them.