Tubal Ligation

Tubal Ligation Surgery in India - Procedure, Benefits and Recovery

Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure for permanent female contraception, also known as female sterilisation. This short explains how it works to prevent pregnancy by blocking the fallopian tubes.

What tubal ligation is

Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure that offers a permanent method of birth control for women.

• Permanent contraception. It is designed to be a permanent form of sterilisation. Reversing the procedure is complex and may not be successful.
• How it works. The surgery blocks or seals the fallopian tubes. This action prevents an egg from travelling from the ovary to the uterus, which stops fertilisation.
• No hormonal changes. The procedure does not interfere with your hormones or menstrual cycle. You can expect to continue having regular periods.
• Does not prevent STIs. It is important to know that tubal ligation only prevents pregnancy. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

The surgical procedure

The operation is most often performed as a laparoscopic, or 'keyhole', surgery.

• General anaesthesia. You are usually given a general anaesthetic, which means you will be asleep during the procedure.
• Small incisions. The surgeon makes one or more small cuts in the abdomen, often near the belly button.
• Closing the tubes. Using special instruments, the surgeon will close the fallopian tubes. This may be done by cutting and tying them, sealing them, or applying clips or rings.
• Day case procedure. In most cases, patients can go home on the same day as the surgery.

Recovery and considerations

• After the surgery. You may experience some pain, bloating or discomfort in your abdomen or shoulder. This usually improves within a few days.
• Returning to activities. Most people can resume their normal daily activities within about a week. Strenuous activity should be avoided for longer.
• Immediate effect. Tubal ligation is effective as a form of contraception straight away.
• A personal decision. Choosing permanent sterilisation is a major decision. You should be certain that you do not wish to become pregnant in the future.

The suitability of any procedure depends on your individual circumstances and medical history. A final decision can only be made after a specialist has reviewed your reports and recent imaging.