TUBAL LIGATION
There’s no going back.
IT’S PERMANENT
Tubal ligation (also known as female sterilization) involves removing the body's ability to release eggs into the womb with a surgical procedure. Generally speaking it is irreversible, so it is only a choice for those who never want to have children, or who don't wish to have any more.
There are surgical and non-surgical methods of sterilization. Non-surgical methods block the fallopian tubes with a small, metal device. This is placed through the vagina with a special catheter, and it works by causing scar tissue to form around it, eventually closing the tubes. This process takes around three months, so you will have to use another method of birth control in this time, but once it's done, it's done.
The surgical methods are more invasive, and are generally performed under general anesthesia so they require a longer recovery time. During the surgery the fallopian tubes are cut, sealed using an instrument with an electrical current, or closed with clamps or rings. Once done, sterilization doesn't affect libido or your ability to have sex, but it's important to consult your doctor or nurse while you make the decision. They will help you weigh the benefits, risks and any potential drawbacks, and inform you of other long-acting birth control methods such as the intrauterine system (IUS) and the copper intrauterine device (IUD), which are also highly effective.
HOW IT MEASURES UP
Does sterilization reduce sex drive?
No, sterilization does not impact libido, and anyone can have sex after they have recovered from the procedure the same as they did before.
Does the procedure hurt?
Anesthetic will be used to reduce discomfort during the procedure. Some people experience soreness and feel weak for several days or even a few weeks after the procedure, but strength is soon regained.
Can sterilization be reversed?
Sterilization is intended to be permanent and irreversible, so those who feel they may want to have children in the future should opt for an alternative method of birth control. Surgery to reverse sterilization is very difficult, and the risk of ectopic pregnancy after reversed sterilization is greater than usual.
Does tubal ligation affect periods?
No. Most research finds no major changes in period patterns after female sterilization. If a hormonal method of birth control or a copper IUD was used before sterilization, the bleeding patterns will return to the way it was before.
Is female sterilization the same thing as tubal ligation?
Yes. In tubal ligation, the fallopian tubes are blocked or clamped to stop eggs from passing through. It’s generally considered permanent.
Can “tied tubes” come undone?
Sterilization is meant to be permanent. However, it is possible to reverse the blocking or sealing of the fallopian tubes. This can be a difficult and expensive process.
What are the chances of getting pregnant after a tubal ligation?
Tubal ligation is one of the most effective methods of birth control. Pregnancy rates are around 1/1,000 after the first year, and between 2-10/1,000 after five years.1
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
Start preparing for the next appointment with your doctor or nurse today!
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
24%...2
Worldwide use female sterilization as birth control.
3
MONTH
The length of time it takes for the non-surgical procedure to be effective.
18343
The first full medical description of the procedure was provided by Von Blundell.3
PROS
- Almost 100% effective.4
- One time lasts forever – once done, no more worries about unwanted pregnancy.4
- Hormone-free – it is an option for those who cannot or do not want to use hormones.4
CONS
- Not immediately effective – you should still use birth control until your next period or three months after the surgery.4
- Can fail – although rare, it is possible and can happen immediately or years after the procedure.4
- If it fails...there may be a higher risk for the pregnancy to start outside the womb, a complication called ectopic pregnancy.4
References
- American Pregnancy Association. Pregnancy after tubal ligation. https://americanpregnancy.org/getting-pregnant/pregnancy-tubal-ligation/ [Accessed October 2022]. Return to content
- UN. https://www.un.org/development/desa/pd/sites/www.un.org.development.desa.pd/files/files/documents/2020/Jan/un_2019_contraceptiveusebymethod_databooklet.pdf [Accessed August 2022]. Return to content
- Everett S. Handbook of Contraception and Sexual Health. 2014. Abingdon, Oxon: Routledge. Return to content
- NHS. Female sterilization. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/female-sterilisation/ [Accessed October 2022]. Return to content
