Laparoscopic Tubal Ligation

What is laparoscopic tubal ligation?

Deciding to have tubal ligation, or have your "tubes tied," is a major decision. Tubal ligation is a permanent form of birth control, meaning you can’t get pregnant naturally after you have the procedure.

During ovulation, eggs travel down your fallopian tubes into your uterus. Tubal ligation keeps this from happening. Along with preventing any future pregnancies, tubal ligation may help lower your risk of ovarian cancer. Main Line Health offers laparoscopic tubal ligation, a minimally invasive procedure.

Who should consider laparoscopic tubal ligation?

There are many other forms of less permanent birth control. You should only choose tubal ligation if:

• You never want to become pregnant again
• You’re positive you won’t regret your decision
• You’re older and finished having children or you will never have children

The younger you are when you choose tubal ligation, the more likely it is that you might change your mind about the decision later.

Tubal ligation can be reversed in some cases, but that’s considered major surgery. Some women who have tubal ligation may consider using in vitro fertilization to become pregnant later.

How is laparoscopic tubal ligation performed?

If you’re having laparoscopic tubal ligation, you’ll have general anesthesia so you won’t feel anything during the procedure. Your surgeon will make a small incision in your navel to insert the laparoscopic camera and another small incision to insert the surgical instruments. The fallopian tubes will be blocked either by clamping them off with a clip or ring, or by cauterizing (burning) them shut.

There are many benefits to having your tubal ligation performed laparoscopically. The smaller incisions mean you’ll have less pain after your surgery and have a faster recovery time. There’s also less risk for infection.