TUBAL LIGATION
Many women request a form of permanent birth control or sterilization when they have completed their families . When the partner is willing , vasectomy is an excellent option . Vasectomy is more effective , safer , and less expensive than tubal ligation . Female sterilization is usually performed by a procedure known as bilateral tubal ligation . This procedure blocks the fallopian tube by cutting , banding , burning , or tying . This procedure prevents sperm from reaching and fertilizing the egg .
Tubal ligation can be performed during the postpartum time or at an interval time after delivery . Postpartum tubal ligation can be accomplished because the enlarged uterus makes the fallopian tubes easily accessible through a small incision below the navel . Tubal ligation can be performed when the uterus is small using an instrument known as a laparoscope . We will also offer removal of both fallopian tubes at the time of an interval laparoscopic surgery . This has been shown to possibly reduce the risk of cancer similar to ovarian cancer . As is true with all surgical procedures , sterilization by tubal ligation does have risks .
• Risks include infection , bleeding , and injury to the bowel , bladder , major blood vessels , or other abdominal structures . In most cases , these complications can be identified , treated , and corrected .
• It is important to understand that tubal ligation can fail . The risk of this occurrence is seven in 1,000 sterilizations . Tubal ligation failures are more likely to result in an ectopic ( tubal ) pregnancy .
• The procedure should be considered permanent and irreversible .
Postpartum tubal ligation is an elective procedure that requires adequate operating room and anesthesia staff . We are happy to offer a tubal ligation at the time of C-section or the day following your vaginal delivery . However , due to the unpredictable nature of labor and delivery , we cannot guarantee that we will be able to perform a postpartum sterilization .
CONTRACEPTION
We ask that you consider your choice carefully , particularly if you are young . Many women regret their decision to be sterilized . Before you finalize your decision , ask your physician for more information about reversible forms of birth control , such as :
• Nexplanon implants – 1 / 300 failure rate
• Intrauterine devices ( IUD ) – Copper T IUD 1 / 200 failure rate , Mirena IUD 1 / 400 failure rate
• Depo-Provera injections – 1 / 300 failure rate
• Oral contraceptive pills ( birth control pills ) – 1 / 100 failure rate
• Barrier methods – 8 / 100 failure rate
Additional information and literature about these alternative methods are available from our offices . You may also reference birth control information by visiting uabmedicine . org / women .
30 My Prenatal Care Book