TUBAL LIGATION

What is it?

• A tubal ligation is a surgical procedure in which the woman's Fallopian Tubes are tied, cut or blocked to prevent fertilization.
• In non surgical procedure, tubal implants are placed in each tube, and scar tissue develops gradually around them, effectively blocking the passage of egg cells towards the sperm.
• This is normally used as a birth control technique, for women who wish to practice sex without the fear of pregnancy.

Advantages

• The surgery acts as a sterilization process
• The woman can have sex without the risk of pregnancy after this surgery
• This surgery does NOT protect from any sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and a condom should be used nonetheless.

Preparation

• The surgery is performed with the patient under general or local anesthesia
• The patient is required to have a void bladder for a few hours before the surgery

Procedure

A tubal ligation may be performed in the following ways

• Laparoscopic method, in which the ligation is done by a laparoscope introduced in the body through a small incision in the abdomen
• Postpartum tubal ligation (performed after childbirth)
• An open tubal ligation is recommended if the patient has a history of abdominal surgeries, endometriosis or Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
• Tubal implants are introduced in the tubes without surgery or anesthesia, and take about 10 minutes

Post surgery

After a tubal ligation, the following are common occurrences

• Slight bleeding through the vagina
• Cramps in the lower abdomen

Precautions

• The patient is advised to avoid any physical activities for at least 24 hours after tubal ligation
• In case of tubal implants, it is advised to use another method of contraception for at least 3 months
• No backup is needed in case of surgical procedure
• In case of any abnormal discharge from the vagina or the wounds, contact the doctor immediately, as it may be a sign of infection

"Authored By Dr.Niraj Mahajan"