Tubectomy: Are There Any Risk Factors Involved?

Also known as tubal sterilization, tubectomy is a permanent method of contraception in women. It is a surgical procedure in which a portion of the fallopian tubes are blocked to prevent an egg that is released from the ovaries, from reaching the uterus. In case an egg is present in the uterus, it carries with it the risk of fertilization, thus, can lead to pregnancy. Sometimes the patient may change her decision and ask for a reversal of the process. However, it should also be kept in mind that the surgery is a complex one. The results are often not guaranteed. 

The Procedure 

1. Tubectomy refers to cutting or blocking a small portion of the fallopian tubes that prevent the released eggs from reaching the uterus.
2. The surgeon reaches to the fallopian tubes by cutting open a portion of the abdomen in case of an open surgery.
3. Laparoscopic techniques are also available to conduct the surgery.
4. The fallopian tubes are blocked by an artificial clip to prevent the passage of eggs.

Are there any risk factors involved?

1. Tubectomy may carry some risks for patients who have previously undergone abdominal surgeries.
2. Ectopic pregnancy can be a late complication if fertilisation happens in the remnant tube.
3. Intraoperative haemorrhage is a rare complication.
4. Post tubal ligation syndrome (dysmenorrhoea and chronic pelvic pain) may affect some women.

Minimally-invasive surgeries help in quicker recoveries. It is almost 99% effective as a measure of birth control and thus provides a permanent solution. This surgery can even be done immediately after delivery or in the postmenstrual period (interval ligation). Family welfare departments, Government hospitals and Primary health care centres offer free surgery and care to aid and educate about family planning.