What it is
The tubes carry the egg toward the uterus. Closing or removing them stops that.
It is done through two small cuts while you are asleep. Most often the tubes are removed rather than tied.
It is permanent. Reversal is not a plan. Dr. Mueller will ask you to be sure before anything is booked.
Why it is done
- You are done having children and want it settled
- You do not want to keep managing birth control
- A medical condition that makes pregnancy dangerous for you
- You are already having another pelvic operation
- You have had an endometrial ablation and need reliable contraception
What happens, step by step
- 1
The conversation
Dr. Mueller goes through permanence and the alternatives before booking.
- 2
Consent signed
Some plans require the consent form a set number of days ahead.
- 3
Under anesthesia
The operation is done with you fully asleep.
- 4
Two small cuts
The camera goes in at the navel and an instrument low on the abdomen.
- 5
Tubes handled
Each tube is removed, or sealed and divided.
- 6
Home the same day
You leave once you are awake and walking.
Questions people ask
- Is a tubal ligation reversible?
- Treat it as permanent. Removed tubes cannot be reconnected, and IVF is the route if you change your mind.
- Will it change my periods or my hormones?
- No. The ovaries stay and keep working. Stopping the pill at the same time is what usually changes a period.
- Can I still get pregnant?
- Pregnancy afterward is rare. If a period is late, take a test, because an ectopic has to be ruled out.
- Why remove the tube instead of tying it?
- Many ovarian cancers are now thought to start in the fallopian tube. Removing it is the usual choice when the anatomy allows.
- Does it hurt?
- Sore cuts and shoulder gas pain for a day or two. Ibuprofen handles most of it.
- Should I consider a vasectomy instead?
- It is a smaller operation with no general anesthesia. Talk it through together before you decide.