Tubal Sterilization
Tubal sterilization is one of the most effective forms of birth control. It can prevent pregnancy by blocking the egg from being fertilized by sperm. Tubal sterilization is a surgery that can be an outpatient procedure or done after childbirth.
Making the Decision
If you have a tubal sterilization, you most likely will never get pregnant again. Be sure that's what you want. Talk it over with your health care provider and with your partner. Surgery to undo tubal sterilization is complicated, costly, and not always successful. So think of tubal sterilization as a lifelong birth control choice.
Your Surgical Options
Your doctor will choose the best way to block your fallopian tubes.
Cauterization uses electrical current to burn and block each tube. The tubes may also be cut.
A ring or band cinches each tube so the egg and sperm can't meet.
A clip clamps on each tube, closing it.
Ligation ties off a portion of each tube to block it. The tied off part is cut and removed.
Possible laparoscopy incision sites
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Minilaparotomy incision sites
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Laparoscopy
This surgery is done as an outpatient procedure A tiny incision is made near your navel. Your doctor inserts a lighted viewing tube (laparoscope) to see your fallopian tubes. With surgical instruments inserted through the laparoscope or other tiny incisions, your doctor blocks your fallopian tubes. Then the incisions are closed with sutures or staples.
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Minilaparotomy
This surgery is often done right after having a baby. A small incision is made near your navel or at your pubic hairline. Your doctor then blocks your fallopian tubes. The incision is closed with sutures or staples. After a cesarean delivery, minilaparotomy can be done through the incision already made.
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