| Basic Information |
|
| Definition |
|
A method of sterilization that involves blocking the fallopian tubes in a way
that the ovum (egg) is inaccessible for fertilization.
|
|
| Reasons For Procedure |
|
Prevention of unwanted pregnancy. It is important to receive professional counseling
before deciding to undergo this surgery. Sterilization is considered a permanent
form of birth control, although in some cases it can be reversed.
|
|
| Risk Increases With |
- Obesity, smoking; poor nutrition.
- Recent or chronic illness.
- Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers;
sleeping pills; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
- Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens;
marihuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.
|
| Description of Procedure |
- The procedure may be performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical facility.
- A local anesthetic by injection, a spinal anesthetic by injection or a general
anesthetic may be administered.
- One of several techniques is used to expose the fallopian tubes for surgery
Laparoscopy (most common procedure) involves the use of a telescopic instrument
with fiberoptic light and generally requires a pencil size-incision above
the pelvic bone. Minilaparotomy involves an approach through an incision just
below the umbilicus (belly button). This approach is favored in women having
the tubal ligation immediately following delivery. Posterior colpotomy (less
often used) is an approach through the rear of the vagina.
- Once the fallopian tubes are exposed, a small section of each tube is cut
free and removed. The severed ends are tied (ligated), blocked or coagulated
using an electric current. In some cases, the tubes are clamped off using
a clip or band. When the procedure is a laparoscopy, the operation is performed
inside the abdomen with the appropriate instruments. With a laparotomy, the
tubes are handled directly and a segment is generally removed.
- A laparotomy, which requires a standard surgical incision through the abdomen,
is a more complicated method of tubal ligation and is usually reserved for
cases where other methods have failed, there is scarring from previous surgery,
or the laparotomy is necessary for another condition.
- If an incision was made, the skin is closed with sutures or clips, which
usually can be removed about one week after surgery. Often, the sutures used
are absorbable and don't need to be removed.
|
| Expected Outcome |
- Expect complete healing without complications and sterility for life. Your
menstrual periods will continue as usual. Allow about two weeks for recovery
from surgery.
- Patients who had heavy periods prior to the operation will continue to have
heavy periods.
- Patients who have been on oral contraceptives (the pill) for a long time
may find that the added benefits of the pill require that they remain on it
after their tubal ligation.
|
|
| Possible Complications |
- Inadvertent injury to surrounding structures.
- Infection or bleeding.
- Failure of the sterilization procedure (about 1% or less for all techniques).
This may result in an ectopic pregnancy.
|
| Treatment/Post Procedure Care |
|
| General Measures |
- With most procedures, you will be allowed to return home the same day.
- Use an electric heating pad a heat lamp or a warm compress to relieve surgical
wound pain.
- Bathe and shower as usual. You may wash the incision gently with mild unscented
soap.
- Use another method of birth control until the next menstrual period to make
sure an egg has not passed the point where the tubes were blocked.
- Consider psychological counseling if you feel sad or depressed after the
surgery.
|
| Medication |
- Prescription pain medication should generally only be required for two to
seven days following the procedure.
- You may use nonprescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.
- Stool softener laxative, if needed to prevent constipation.
- Antibiotics to fight infection.
|
| Activity |
- Return to daily activities and work after one week.
- Avoid vigorous exercise for 2 weeks after surgery.
- Resume driving 3 days after returning home.
- Sexual relations may be resumed when your doctor has determined that healing
is complete.
|
| Diet |
|
No restrictions.
|
|
| Notify Your Healthcare Provider If |
- Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical
area.
- You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general
ill feeling and fever.
- You experience nausea, vomiting, constipation or abdominal swelling.
- New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side
effects.
|