What is Tubal Ligation?
Tubal ligation is a permanent birth control method that involves surgical sterilization. It prevents pregnancy without removing your uterus or ovaries. Tubal ligations are common and can be done in an outpatient surgical center, in-office, or at a hospital. In most cases, you can go home on the same day of the procedure.
While tubal ligation is sterilization, meaning you can’t get pregnant any longer, it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV. Barrier methods, such as condoms, are still required during sex to protect you from these conditions. Routine STI testing can help you learn more about your health status.
How Does Tubal Ligation Work?
During a tubal ligation procedure, your fallopian tubes are permanently closed off or removed. These methods prevent an egg from moving from your ovary, where it’s made, through the fallopian tubes and down into the uterus for fertilization.
When your provider performs your sterilization procedure, you will be placed under anesthesia. The procedure will likely be done laparoscopically. These small incisions heal faster, make your recovery period shorter, and create smaller scars.
Sterilization through tubal ligation is effective right away. Fewer than one in 100 women get pregnant within a year of the procedure.1
Can I Get Permanent Birth Control After Giving Birth?
Postpartum sterilization procedures are an option for those who want to eliminate the chance of pregnancy after they’ve given birth to their final child. If you give birth in a hospital, it can be done there before you head home with your new baby. If you have a cesarean section to give birth, your provider can complete your tubal ligation once your baby is born.
A tubal ligation procedure after you’ve given birth takes around 30 minutes and will not extend your hospital stay. You can go home with your baby and start your journey to parenthood as you intend to. During your recovery from childbirth and surgery, your provider will be available if you have questions or experience any issues.
Permanent Birth Control For Men
Permanent birth control for men is available. It is a surgical procedure called a vasectomy that prevents sperm from releasing semen during ejaculation. A vasectomy has similar effectiveness to a tubal ligation.
Like tubal ligation, a vasectomy does not protect against STIs or HIV.
Schedule An Appointment to Discuss Permanent Birth Control With Your Provider
If you’re finished growing your family, then permanent birth control may be the right option for you. Your provider at Genesis OBGYN can help you explore your options and find a permanent birth control solution that’s right for you. Request an appointment today.
1https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/sterilization-for-women-and-men
