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Tubal Ligation
Tubal ligation is the popular surgery commonly referred to as “having your tubes tied.” If you know for sure that you don’t want to become pregnant, consult the expert OB/GYN staff at Reston Women’s Center with their vast surgical experience. If you live in Reston, Virginia, call the office or book an appointment online to learn more about tubal ligation
Tubal Ligation Q & A
What is Tubal Ligation?
During tubal ligation, your doctor makes a small incision in your abdomen to clamp, tie off, or cut your fallopian tubes. This permanently prevents you from getting pregnant by stopping the sperm from traveling through the tubes to meet and fertilize your egg.
Who Should Consider Tubal Ligation?
Tubal ligation is right for women who no longer want children since it’s not easily reversible. The procedure won’t protect against sexually transmitted infections and doesn’t stop your menstrual cycle. However, it can reduce your risk of ovarian cancer, especially in cases of tubal ligation that involve removing the fallopian tubes.
When is Tubal Ligation Performed?
Tubal ligation can be done at just about any time. The doctors at Reston Women’s Center may perform it after you have a vaginal birth, with an incision just below your belly button, or during a C-section.
It can also be performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you go home the same day, whenever you determine you’re ready to change your fertility status permanently.
What Should I Expect During Recovery From a Tubal Ligation?
If you have a tubal ligation at the time of your baby’s delivery, it won’t lengthen your hospital stay.
Do expect to have some pain at the incision site. You may also have gassiness and bloating as well as abdominal pain or cramping. Dizziness and fatigue are other temporary side effects of the surgery. These symptoms should resolve within a few days.
Heavy lifting and strenuous activity should be avoided for several weeks. Your doctor will let you know when it’s okay to resume all normal activities.
Is a Tubal Ligation Guaranteed to Prevent Pregnancy?
Some women, especially younger patients, who have a tubal ligation still manage to become pregnant. These cases are rare and are often ectopic pregnancies that occur outside of the uterus and require medical intervention. An ectopic pregnancy is not viable.
Tubal ligation is reversible, but the process is complicated and doesn’t always work.
If you’re considering tubal ligation, talk to the friendly and compassionate providers at Reston Women’s Center to help you decide whether the procedure is right for you. Call the office or book an appointment online today.