Are you someone who is thinking of having children now and has no hope of getting pregnant again? Then you must have heard about 'tubes tied' or female sterilization surgery. Many people do not understand this exactly, and they also have many questions. So today we will talk about this family planning surgery, or in medical terms `(Tubal Ligation)`, in a very clear and simple way.
Simply put, what is Tubal Ligation?
It's very simple. Your reproductive system has a part called the Fallopian tubes. These are two thin tubes that extend from either side of your uterus to your ovaries. An egg released from your ovaries travels to your uterus through these fallopian tubes. It is inside these tubes that this egg meets a sperm and is fertilized.
Tubal Ligation is a surgical procedure that involves cutting, tying, or blocking the fallopian tubes with a clip or other method. This prevents the egg from reaching the sperm. This means that fertilization does not occur and pregnancy does not occur. This is the simplest procedure.
This is also called female sterilization. It can be done after a normal delivery, during a cesarean section (C-section), during another abdominal surgery, or as a separate surgery.
Most importantly, this is a permanent birth control method . It does not provide any protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Why do so many people choose this surgery?
The main reason for this is that it is a permanent and very effective method of birth control . Its success rate is more than 99%. If you are 100% sure that you do not want any more children, this is the safest and easiest method available. You will have the opportunity to enjoy your sex life without worrying about pregnancy after the surgery.
In addition, doctors also recommend removing the fallopian tubes as a treatment for certain medical conditions. In particular, if there are certain genetic mutations (for example, BRCA gene mutations) that increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer, this surgery may also be recommended to reduce that risk.
How do you know if you are really ready for this surgery?
This is a very big decision to make in your life. Because it is a permanent thing. Sometimes, although ``reversal`` surgeries are successful, they are very complicated, expensive, and there is no guarantee that they will be successful. So you should think of this as a permanent thing.
If you still have the slightest idea of having children, this surgery is not for you. Instead, you can use a reversible birth control method, for example:
- Birth control pills
- The loop `(IUD - Intrauterine device)`
- Choose a method like condoms.
Also, this decision is not something you should make alone. Talk to your partner about this as well. There is a sterilization surgery ``(Vasectomy)`` that can be done by men as well. It is also very effective and a simpler method than this surgery.
What are the methods used to perform this surgery?
Tubal ligation surgery can be performed in three main ways. Your doctor will determine the most appropriate method for you based on your health condition and the timing of the surgery (e.g., after childbirth).
| Surgical method | How to do it | Special points |
|---|---|---|
| Laparoscopic Tubal Ligation | Two very small incisions are made through the navel and lower abdomen, a delicate instrument with a camera (laparoscope) is inserted, and the fallopian tubes are blocked under the watchful eye of a monitor. | This is the most commonly used method. The incisions are very small, so they heal quickly. You can usually go home from the hospital in a few hours. |
| Mini-laparotomy | A small incision (about an inch) is made in the lower abdomen, the fallopian tubes are removed, tied, and blocked. | This procedure is most often performed within 24 hours of a normal delivery because the uterus is high at that time, making it easier to reach the fallopian tubes. |
| Laparotomy | A surgery performed through a fairly large incision (2-5 inches) in the abdomen. | This is a major surgery. It takes time to heal. This method is generally used less now. However, when performing a cesarean section, this method is used if this surgery is also performed through the same incision. |
What to expect after surgery?
After the surgery, you will be taken to a separate ward (recovery area) for observation. If you had laparoscopic surgery, you will be able to go home within a few hours. For other procedures, you may need to stay in the hospital for a day or two.
Things to consider after surgery
You may experience some discomfort after the surgery. This is normal.
- Heavy lifting: Avoid lifting heavy objects for at least a week or two. If you had surgery after giving birth, don't lift anything heavier than your baby's weight for at least four weeks.
- Driving and alcohol: Do not drive or drink alcohol for at least 24 hours.
- Bathing: You can wash your body as usual. But avoid getting in a bathtub or swimming for two weeks. The incision should heal well.
- Shoulder pain: You may experience shoulder, neck, and chest pain for two to three days due to the carbon dioxide gas that is inflated into your abdomen during surgery. Taking a lukewarm bath, using a heating pad, and walking around a bit can help with this.
- Vomiting and nausea: Eat a light meal (e.g. tea, soup, bread, crackers).
- Pain: Abdominal swelling and pain may last for a few days. Use the painkillers prescribed by your doctor as directed.
- Vaginal bleeding: It is normal to have some light bleeding for about a month after surgery. It may take 4-6 weeks for your normal menstrual cycle to resume. At that time, your period may be heavier and more painful.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of this surgery?
Like any medical procedure, it has its pros and cons. It is important to be aware of both before making a decision.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Very effective and convenient: Over 99% effective. Provides lifelong protection against pregnancy. No need to take pills daily or go to clinics. | Regret: Surveys have shown that a small percentage of people who have this surgery before the age of 30 regret it later. So, make a decision carefully. |
| Does not affect hormones: This is a non-hormonal birth control method. It will not affect your menstrual cycle or menopause. | Permanent: This is a permanent procedure. The chances of successful reversal surgery are very low. |
| Reduces cancer risk: Studies show that this surgery can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by about 40%. | Risks of surgery: As with any surgery, there are minor risks, such as allergies and infection, to anesthesia. However, this is a very safe surgery. |
What are the most important times to see a doctor?
Although this is a very safe surgery, there is a small chance of complications. If you have any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately or go to a hospital's emergency department (ETU).
- Persistent vomiting and nausea lasting more than a day.
- A fever of more than 37.3 degrees Celsius (100 Fahrenheit) for more than one day.
- Redness, swelling, pus, or bleeding around the incision.
- Heavy bleeding or blood clots that completely soak a sanitary pad within two hours.
- Severe abdominal or pelvic pain.
- Feeling like a gnat.
Very rarely, blocked fallopian tubes can reconnect. If this happens, an ectopic pregnancy can occur. This is a dangerous condition that requires emergency medical treatment.
Some frequently asked questions
Will I have my periods after the surgery?
Yes, absolutely. This surgery will not affect your hormones or menstrual cycle. You will have your period as normal.
What will happen to my ovaries after the surgery?
Even after surgery, your ovaries will still release an egg each month (ovulation) as normal. But now, because the fallopian tubes are blocked, the egg cannot travel to the uterus. So, the body reabsorbs the egg.
Can I get pregnant after surgery?
The probability of this is very low, less than 1%. But it can happen very rarely.
How soon after surgery can I have sex?
You can usually resume sexual activity in about a week. However, if you had this surgery after giving birth, you will need to wait until your doctor advises you (usually about six weeks).
Take-Home Message
- Tubal ligation is a permanent birth control method. Before making this decision, think carefully about whether you are 100% sure. Also talk about this with your partner.
- This is a very safe surgery with a success rate of over 99%.
- This surgery will not affect your hormones or menstrual cycle.
- Be aware of possible complications after surgery. If you experience any dangerous symptoms, see your doctor immediately.
- Most importantly, this surgery does not provide any protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is imperative to use protective methods such as condoms.
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