Tubal ligation is a procedure that is done for the purpose of closing a woman’s fallopian tubes. These tubes connect a woman’s ovaries to her uterus. When the procedure is complete a woman cannot get pregnant.
Tubal ligation is a permanent form of birth control. It is never recommended as a method of short term birth control. Although the procedure can be reversed with another surgery, there is no guarantee that fertility will be restored.
Length of the procedure is normally 30 minutes. Most patents are released form care the same day as their procedure, but some some woman may need to stay overnight. Patients seeking a tubal ligation through medical tourism can return home within 24 to 48 hours of their procedure. It is best to plan to stay at least one day beyond your procedure to ensue you are accommodated should you require an overnight hospital stay.
Your surgery will begin with the administration of general anesthesia. The surgeon will make 1 or 2 small incisions on your belly close to your belly button. They will use air to expand your belly, this will help the surgeon have a better view of your fallopian tubes and uterus.
The surgeon will insert a laparoscope through the small incision. The laparoscope has a camera so they can see inside of the pelvis and it also has the instruments they need to perform the procedure. To close the fallopian tubes they will either cauterize them or clamp them with a clip or rubber band.
After the procedure you will be taken to recovery. Your vitals will be monitored carefully during this time. When you have woken from the surgery and your vitals are stable you will be released from care or moved to a regular hospital room. The first 2 to 4 days post-op are the most uncomfortable. You may be swollen, crampy and have vaginal bleeding or discharge. Most woman are able to return to normal activity within 2 or 3 days.
Self care after tubal ligation:
Incisions should be kept clean, dry and covered per doctor’s instructions
Avoid bathing or soaking in a tub, hot tubs or swimming until incisions are healed
Avoid heavy lifting for 3 weeks
Avoid sex for 7 days
Tubal ligation is a very common procedure and most woman do not experience complications after the procedure. It is an extremely effective method of birth control. No further tests are required to ensure that you will not get pregnant after tubal ligation. In fact, less than .05% of women get pregnant after tubal ligation.