Have you had children? Let's talk about tubal ligation.

Are you done having children now and have you firmly decided "I don't want another child"? Then you must have heard of a surgery called 'LRT'. This is a popular birth control method among many people. But even though it is talked about, many people do not have a clear understanding of what exactly happens with this surgery, what are its advantages and disadvantages, and what will happen after the surgery. So today, let's learn everything about it very simply.

Simply put, what is tubal ligation?

This is a permanent birth control surgery for women. It is also called "female sterilization." It is a very effective method.

Imagine, our reproductive system has three main parts: the uterus , ovaries , and fallopian tubes . Every month, an egg is released from the ovaries and travels down the fallopian tube to the uterus. Pregnancy occurs only if it meets a sperm during this journey.

This surgery involves cutting and tying off the fallopian tubes, or blocking them with a special clip or band. It's like closing off a road. Then the egg can't meet the sperm, and the sperm can't get to the egg. So pregnancy doesn't happen.

Why would someone decide to have this surgery?

The main reason is to permanently stop having children. This is a method that is more than 99% successful. After the surgery, you can enjoy a happy sex life without worrying about getting pregnant.

Doctors also recommend this surgery for certain medical reasons. For example, for women who have certain genetic mutations (such as the BRCA gene mutation) that increase the risk of ovarian cancer, this surgery (possibly complete removal of the fallopian tubes) may be recommended to reduce that risk.

How do I know if I'm really ready for this?

This is the most important question you need to ask yourself. It is important to remember that this surgery is permanent . Although there are sometimes reversal surgeries, they are very complicated, expensive, and have a low chance of success.

• If you are not 100% sure whether you want another child or not, don't even think about this surgery.
• Instead, it's better to consider a temporary method like birth control pills or an intrauterine device (IUD) that can be stopped at any time.
• Before making this decision, talk to your partner. He may also want to consider a vasectomy, a male sterilization surgery.

It is essential to discuss all your questions and fears about this with your doctor and explain them thoroughly.

What are the methods of performing the surgery?

Tubal ligation surgery can be performed in three main ways. Your doctor will decide the best method based on factors such as your health condition and whether you will be doing it after giving birth.

1. Laparoscopic Tubal Ligation

Many people call this "keyhole surgery " because it doesn't involve a large incision.

• You will be given anesthesia (complete sleep).
• Two very small incisions are made in the groin and lower abdomen.
• A thin tube with a camera called a laparoscope is inserted through one incision, and the abdomen is inflated with a gas (carbon dioxide) to make the organs clearly visible.
• A surgical instrument is inserted through the other incision, the fallopian tubes are located, and the tubes are closed using either a clip, tape, or an electric current (electrocoagulation).
• You can recover quickly after this. You can usually go home from the hospital in a few hours.

2. Mini-laparotomy method

This method is most often performed within 24 hours of a normal delivery.

• If you had an epidural during childbirth, that will be used. Or you will be given spinal anesthesia.
• After the baby is born, the uterus is still near the cervix, so a small incision is made below the cervix to easily locate the fallopian tubes and tie them off with a special thread.

3. Laparotomy

This is an open surgery. This method is not used much anymore because it is done through a slightly larger incision in the abdomen. However, if this surgery is done at the same time as a C-section , it is a great convenience because it is done through the same incision that was used to deliver the baby.

What to expect after surgery

After the surgery, you will be kept in a separate room for observation and, if everything goes well, sent home. If it was done laparoscopically, you can leave in a few hours. With other methods, you may have to stay in the hospital for a day. Take care of these things after you go home.

What are the advantages and disadvantages?

Advantages

• Very effective and easy: Over 99% effective. Provides lifelong protection against pregnancy. No need to take pills every day or go to clinics.
• No hormones: This is a non-hormonal method. So it doesn't affect your menstrual cycle and doesn't cause menopause.
• Reduces cancer risk: Studies have shown that this surgery can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by about 40%.

Disadvantages

• Regret: Some women (especially those who get it done before the age of 30) may regret it later, so think carefully about the decision.
• Permanent: This should be considered a permanent method that cannot be reversed.
• Risks of surgery: Like any surgery, there are very small risks, such as allergies to anesthesia, infection, and damage to surrounding organs.

When to see a doctor immediately

Tubal ligation is a very safe procedure, but you should call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Unbearable stomach pain or pain in the hip area.
• If the cut is oozing pus, bleeding, or is red and swollen.
• High fever (over 100°F / 37.7°C).
• Heavy vaginal bleeding (if a pad is completely soaked within two hours).
• Persistent vomiting.
• If you feel dizzy all the time.

Some frequently asked questions

What will happen to my ovaries after the surgery?

Your ovaries continue to release eggs almost every day, but because they can't pass through the fallopian tube, they are reabsorbed back into your body.

When can I have sex after surgery?

You can usually have sex in about a week. However, if you had surgery after giving birth, you should wait until your doctor tells you to (usually about 6 weeks).

Can I get pregnant again after surgery?

The space is very small. Less than 1%.

Does it provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases?

No. Absolutely not. It is mandatory to use protective methods such as condoms.