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"