Services
Tubal
Ligation
Tubal ligation, also known as having your tubes tied or tubal sterilization, is a permanent form of birth control.
Definition
Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure that blocks or removes your fallopian tubes, which carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. Tubal ligation is the most common method of contraception worldwide.
Why is this Procedure Performed?
Women who no longer wish to have children may opt for the procedure. It’s important to note that though it’s extremely effective at preventing pregnancy, it doesn’t protect women from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Tubal ligation may also decrease your risk of ovarian cancer, especially if the fallopian tubes are removed.
Tubal refers to the fallopian tubes. Each month, an egg is released from an ovary and travels through the fallopian tube to the uterus.
Ligation means to tie off. This prevents the egg and male sperm from connecting to prevent pregnancy.
Tubal ligation prevents an egg from traveling from the ovaries through the fallopian tubes and blocks sperm from traveling up the fallopian tubes to the egg. The procedure doesn’t affect your menstrual cycle.
What are the Risks with Tubal Ligation?
Tubal Ligation is common and relatively safe, but as with any surgical procedure there are risks to consider. If you’re thinking about having it done, it’s important to understand the procedure and the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision. Risks include:
Bleeding from an incision or inside the abdomen
Damage to the bowel, bladder or major blood vessels
Improper wound healing or infection
Side effects from anesthesia
Ectopic pregnancy (an egg that becomes fertilized outside the uterus)
Failure of the procedure, resulting in a future unwanted pregnancy
Additional Resources
Learn more from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
