What is tubal ligation?
Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure performed on some women to close the fallopian tubes, the tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus.
This procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis or by admission to a medical center. It lasts approximately 30 minutes. The anesthesia can be epidural, local or general, depending on each case.
Why is it performed?
The purpose of this surgery is to prevent access of the eggs to the fallopian tubes and the womb, so it is a permanent form of contraception. It is usually recommended for adult women who know for sure that they do not wish to become pregnant in the future.
Another benefit of this method is that it reduces the risk of ovarian cancer. It also helps in some occasions to reestablish the capacity to have a baby.
What does it consist of?
The surgeon makes one or two small incisions in the patient’s abdomen. Once the surgical instruments are inserted, he cauterizes (burns) or seals the fallopian tubes.
This surgical procedure can be done right after having a baby or during a cesarean section.
Preparing for tubal ligation
The days before the surgery, the medical specialist usually asks the patient not to take the various medications and supplements that she takes on a regular basis.
The patient must fast for 8 hours before the surgery. That day it is important to take the drugs that the doctor has recommended.
Care after surgery
In general, tubal ligation is a reversible method, a permeabilization could be performed to make pregnancies possible.
This procedure, in addition to the risks common to any surgical procedure such as bleeding, infections and allergic reactions to medications, has other specific risks. If incomplete tubal closure is performed, pregnancy may occur. If such a pregnancy occurs, there is a risk of an ectopic pregnancy.