Pros and Cons of Getting Your Tubes Tied

If you are done having children or have made the decision not to have children, then you may want to consider a permanent form of birth control. Every woman has a different reason for choosing a permanent procedure like female sterilization as a form of birth control. Some women may have health risks associated with becoming pregnant, and others may not want to pass down a genetic disorder that they or their partner carry. Tubal ligation, commonly known as getting your tubes tied, can be a great option if you are done having children.

As with any procedure, they are pros and cons you will have to weigh before deciding that getting your tubes tied is the best solution for your body. There are advantages to getting tubal ligation that are not possible with other forms of birth control. Tubal ligation is recommended for adult women who have had time to weigh the benefits and risks carefully. After reading this, give Dr. Lodge a call at Cool Springs OBGYN located near Nashville.

What is Tubal Ligation?

Tubal ligation, commonly known as getting your tubes tied, is a surgical procedure involving the fallopian tubes. These tubes connect your uterus and ovaries and provide a passageway for the egg to pass through once released. Tubal ligation is a type of permanent birth control where these tubes are either cut completely or closed off, preventing the egg from reaching the uterus and being fertilized by sperm.

What Happens to My Eggs After Tubal Ligation?

Even after a tubal ligation, your ovaries continue to release eggs as part of your normal ovulation cycle. Here’s what happens to those eggs:

Release: During ovulation, your ovary releases an egg, just like before the procedure.
Blocked Passage: Because your fallopian tubes are blocked or sealed, the egg can’t travel through them to meet sperm for fertilization.
Absorption: The egg stays in the reproductive system and will eventually dissolve or be reabsorbed by your body.

This process is completely natural and doesn’t harm your body. The dissolution and absorption of the egg are just like how your body handles other cells that naturally expire.

Will I Still Have a Period After Getting My Tubes Tied?

Yes, you’ll still get your period after having your tubes tied. Tubal ligation, or sterilization, does not mess with your hormonal cycle.

Here’s what you need to know:

Menstrual Cycle: The procedure won’t cause menopause or change your period. Your ovaries keep working normally, releasing eggs and hormones.
Period Regularity: If your periods were irregular before, they’ll likely stay that way after the surgery. The procedure doesn’t affect hormone levels or menstrual regularity.
Hormonal Balance: Because tubal ligation doesn’t involve removing your ovaries or uterus, your hormonal balance remains the same.

So, in short, tubal ligation is an effective birth control method that doesn’t affect your menstrual cycle. Your periods will continue as usual.

Reasons people may choose to get their tubes tied:

They are done having children or have decided they do not want any.
Health issues that could come with a dangerous pregnancy.
Fear of passing down genetic conditions.

Procedural Details

The procedure can be performed at various times and in different ways, depending on your circumstances:

Immediately Following Childbirth

Vaginal Delivery: If you choose tubal ligation the day after a vaginal birth, the surgeon performs a mini-laparotomy. A small cut is made under the belly button to access the fallopian tubes. This procedure can be done with either general anesthesia (to put you in a sleep-like state) or regional anesthesia (to block pain in the surgery area).
C-Section: During a cesarean section, the surgeon can perform the tubal ligation using the same incision made to deliver the baby. Often, a complete salpingectomy is performed, where the entire fallopian tube on each side is removed to further reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.

Elective Surgery

Laparoscopy: About six weeks after childbirth or at any other time outside of pregnancy, a procedure called laparoscopy can be done. The surgeon makes a small incision near the belly button and inflates the abdomen with gas to create space. A thin tool with a light and camera called a laparoscope, is inserted to view the pelvic organs. Additional small incisions may be made to insert other tools needed to remove or block the fallopian tubes. General anesthesia is typically used for this outpatient procedure.

Interval Tubal Ligation

If performed at a time that is not related to childbirth, the procedure is called an interval tubal ligation. This is usually done using laparoscopy with general anesthesia. Methods to seal the fallopian tubes include burning with an electric current (cautery) or blocking with titanium or spring-loaded clips.

Understanding these variations can help you and your healthcare provider decide the best time and method for the procedure based on your individual circumstances and preferences.

The Pros of Tubal Litigation

There are various advantages to consider that are different than what other forms of birth control offer.

If you are looking for a permanent form of birth control, this is it. There are no pills, shots, prophylactics, vaginal ring, or other types of birth control that you have to remember. Once your tubes are cut, the egg can no longer be fertilized.
Getting your tubes tied is effective. After the procedure, the odds of getting pregnant again are 1 in 200. The odds of pregnancy are less than 1% and are lower than other forms of birth control. Getting your tubes tied does not 100% prevent pregnancy because, over time, tubes may grow back naturally in some women.
Your hormones are left intact. By leaving the ovaries in place, your hormones won’t be affected. Other forms of birth control can cause mood swings, weight gain, headaches, and menstrual issues. Unlike a hysterectomy, a careful tubal ligation leaves the ovary intact and able to continue making necessary feminine hormones.
Did we mention no weight gain? Since your ovaries are left intact, hormones that control your weight and appetite are not affected. This means you won’t gain weight from a tubal ligation procedure.
Your risk of developing ovarian cancer lessens. Even though ovarian cancer is uncommon, it is still the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths in women. One reason for the decreased occurrence is that many times, this cancer develops in the fallopian tubes. If the tubes are tied off, cancer has a more difficult time traveling to the ovary.

The Cons of Tubal Ligation

There is an increased risk of an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy is where the egg is fertilized and implants inside the fallopian tubes instead of the uterus. This type of pregnancy can not reach full term, and you will need to speak to your ob-gyn to determine an emergency contraception option.
Tubal ligation is permanent female sterilization, so you must be very sure that you no longer want the option of pregnancy. Tubal ligation reversal is a possible surgical option to reopen the fallopian tubes. Still, its success will depend on your age, the type of surgery you had, and your reproductive health.
While this prevents pregnancy, it does not prevent STDs. Protective measures will need to take place to ensure you do not contract transmittable diseases from a partner. A female condom is one way to take control of your reproductive health.
Like any surgery, there are risks with more invasive procedures. You risk damage to your bladder, bowel, and blood vessels. Incisions can also become infected, leave scars, or lingering abdominal pain.

Getting Your Tubes Tied: Preparation, The Tubal Ligation Process and What to Expect After Getting Your Tubes Tied

It is important to understand that getting your tubes tied is a big decision. It means that you won’t be able to get pregnant again. Therefore, the very first thing you need to do is ensure this is what you really want. Don’t rush into a decision. Take your time.

If you are sure you want to move forward, you’ll be glad to know that getting your tubes tied sounds much scarier than it really is. We know the term itself can feel intimidating, but the procedure is generally minimally invasive, quick, low-risk, and highly effective.

Here is a rundown of what you can generally expect from beginning to end.

How to Prepare for a Tubal Ligation

Preparing for tubal ligation surgery involves a few important steps to make sure everything goes as planned. Here’s a guide to help you get ready:

Consult with Your Healthcare Provider

Make an Informed Decision: Talk in detail with your doctor about the procedure. Understand the risks, benefits, and that tubal ligation is a permanent decision.
Ask Questions: Clear up any doubts about the surgery, recovery time, and what to expect long term.
Medical History Review: Share your complete medical history with your doctor to avoid any potential complications.

Preoperative Instructions

Fasting Requirements: You may need to fast for a period before surgery. Follow your medical team’s guidelines.
Medication Adjustments: You might need to stop certain medications or supplements before the procedure, like blood thinners. Your doctor will give you specific instructions.
Pre-Surgery Tests: Be ready for any preoperative tests, such as blood work or imaging, that your doctor might order.

Home Preparation

Arrange Transportation: Since you won’t be able to drive yourself home, make sure you have someone to take you to and from the hospital.
Prepare Your Recovery Space: Set up a cozy area at home for rest. Have pain relievers, easy-to-make meals, and plenty of fluids on hand.

Day of Surgery

Follow Instructions: Stick to any specific instructions for the day of surgery, like avoiding jewelry or makeup.
Wear Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose, comfy clothes to keep you at ease before and after the procedure.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared for your tubal ligation surgery, helping ensure a smoother process and faster recovery.

The Tubal Ligation Surgery Process

What happens during tubal ligation surgery depends on the type of tubal ligation surgery you have. While the end goal is the same — preventing pregnancy by blocking, sealing, or cutting the fallopian tubes — the approach can differ.

The three main types include:

Laparoscopic Tubal Ligation: The most common and minimally invasive method, done through small incisions in the abdomen.
Mini-Laparotomy: Often used after childbirth, this involves a small incision just below the belly button.
Laparotomy: A more invasive option, typically used in emergencies or after a cesarean section, requiring a larger incision.

We will go over each in more detail next. But don’t worry, whichever method is used, your doctor will go over every step prior to surgery and answer any questions you might have before your surgery day.

What to Expect After Getting Your Tubes Tied

After your tubal ligation, you’ll be moved to a recovery area where medical staff will monitor you. The length of your stay depends on the type of procedure you had. If you underwent a laparoscopic tubal ligation, you could be heading home within a few hours. However, if you had a mini-laparotomy or laparotomy, you might need to stay overnight. If your tubal ligation was done after childbirth, your recovery will be part of your scheduled hospital stay.

Common Post-Surgery Restrictions

Avoid Heavy Lifting: For the first one to two weeks, avoid lifting anything heavy. If you’ve just given birth, wait at least four weeks before lifting anything heavier than your baby.
Alcohol and Driving: Don’t drink alcohol or drive for at least 24 hours after surgery.
Showering: You can shower right away, but avoid swimming or taking baths for two weeks to allow your incision to heal.

Managing Discomfort

Gas Pain: You might feel discomfort in your neck, shoulders, and chest from the gas used during the procedure. This can last up to 72 hours. A warm shower, heating pad, or gentle walking can help ease the pain.
Nausea: Mild nausea is common. Eating a light meal like soup, toast, or crackers the evening after surgery can help.
Swelling: Your abdomen might be swollen for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief or prescription medication from your doctor can help manage this.
Bleeding: You might experience some vaginal bleeding for up to a month. Your next period could be delayed by four to six weeks and might be heavier and more uncomfortable than usual.

What is Laparoscopic Tubal Ligation Surgery?

Laparoscopic tubal ligation is the most common and least invasive method of permanent birth control. It is a same-day, outpatient procedure (meaning no hospital stay) that has a shorter recovery time, lower risk of complications, and minimal scarring. It also has a success rate of over 99%, making it one of the most reliable options for permanent birth control.

During the procedure, a small camera called a laparoscope is inserted through a tiny incision near the belly button, allowing the surgeon to see the fallopian tubes. A second small incision is made lower on the abdomen to insert specialized instruments that block, cut, or seal the tubes.

The tubes can be closed using clips, bands, or cauterization (burning), or a section may be removed entirely to create a permanent barrier that prevents eggs from meeting sperm.

Because the incisions are small, recovery is generally quick and very manageable. Most people go home the same day and can return to normal activities within 3 to 7 days. Mild discomfort, bloating, or cramping may occur as the body heals.

What is a Mini Laparotomy?

A mini-laparotomy is a slightly more invasive form of tubal ligation often performed immediately after childbirth for those who want permanent birth control without having to wait for a separate surgery later. While slightly more invasive, it is still highly effective and offers the same 99% success rate in preventing pregnancy.

In this procedure, a small incision, typically 1 to 2 inches long, is made just below the belly button. The fallopian tubes are brought through the incision and blocked or cut to prevent future pregnancies. The tubes can be tied and cut, cauterized, or a portion may be removed depending on the surgeon’s approach.

Since a mini-laparotomy involves a larger incision than a laparoscopic procedure, the recovery period is slightly longer. Most people feel back to normal within 1 to 2 weeks, though it’s common to experience mild soreness and fatigue for a few days after the procedure.

What is a Laparotomy?

A laparotomy is the most invasive of the three tubal ligation methods. While it’s not commonly used for standard tubal ligations, it is a necessary option in certain situations when other methods aren’t suitable.

It is most commonly used when a woman wants immediate sterilization after a C-section because the surgeon can use the same incision made for childbirth, eliminating the need for an additional surgical cut.

During the procedure, if needed, the surgeon makes a two to five-inch-long incision in the lower abdomen. Next, they carefully lift the fallopian tubes through the opening. Once accessed, the tubes are cut and sealed using bands, rings, clamps, or cauterization, depending on the method chosen.

After completing the tubal ligation, the incision is closed with stitches, and the healing process begins. Because it’s an open abdominal surgery, a laparotomy generally requires a hospital stay of one to two days and comes with a longer recovery period compared to laparoscopic or mini-laparotomy procedures.

Side Effects and Potential Complications of Tubal Ligation

While most side effects and risks are similar across all types of tubal ligation procedures, the degree of invasiveness can slightly affect recovery time and potential complications.

The most common side effects of tubal ligation surgery are mild cramping, abdominal pain, nausea, and bloating. Some also report shoulder pain from the gas used in the laparoscopic procedure and fatigue or lightheadedness if you have a method that requires anesthesia.

Complications from tubal ligation are uncommon, but as with any surgical procedure, there are some potential risks:

Infection: A low risk, but possible if bacteria enter the incision sites.
Bleeding or Hematoma: Rare, but bleeding can occur internally or at the incision.
Damage to Surrounding Organs: In extremely rare cases, nearby organs such as the bladder or intestines can be accidentally injured during the procedure.
Reaction to Anesthesia: As with any surgery, there’s a slight risk of adverse reactions to anesthesia.
Ectopic Pregnancy: In the rare event that pregnancy does occur after getting your tubes tied, it’s more likely to be ectopic (when the fertilized egg implants in the fallopian tube instead of the uterus). Ectopic pregnancies require immediate medical attention as they can be life-threatening if untreated.
Post-Tubal Ligation Syndrome (PTLS): Some women report experiencing changes in menstrual cycles, hormone fluctuations, or other symptoms after the procedure. Doctors call this Post-Tubal Ligation Syndrome (PTLS). However, PTLS remains a controversial and debated condition in the medical community, with no definitive link proven between tubal ligation and these symptoms.

Because PTLS is a controversial and debated condition in the medical community, with no definitive link proven between tubal ligation and these symptoms, we are going to explore it in a little more detail in the next section to give you a deeper understanding of this potential post-procedure experience.

Understanding Post-Tubal Ligation Syndrome (PTLS)

Post-tubal ligation syndrome (PTLS) refers to a set of symptoms that some people experience after having a tubal ligation.

Common Symptoms of PTLS

PTLS symptoms can show up months or even years after the procedure. Some of the common symptoms include:

Pelvic or Back Pain: Discomfort in the lower abdomen or back.
Dyspareunia: Pain during intercourse.
Headaches: Frequent or severe headaches.
Menstrual Irregularities: Cramps, unusual bleeding, or missed periods.
Hormonal Fluctuations: Symptoms similar to PMS or menopause, like mood swings, hot flashes, and irritability.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you’ve had a tubal ligation and are experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider. They can help manage the symptoms and check for any other underlying issues.

Early intervention can make a big difference in managing PTLS and improving your quality of life, so don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you think you might have PTLS.

What is the Recommended Age to Get Your Tubes Tied?

Many wonder if a woman can get her tubes tied at any age. Federally, there is no legal age requirement to get your tubes tied. However, the legal age varies between states, but you must be between 18 and 21 to undergo this procedure. It is reported that 25% of women under 30 years of age who choose tubal ligation experience regret. We all change as we grow and mature, and many times our life goals change with time or even with a partner. It is recommended to wait until your 30s to choose to get your tubes tied.

If getting your tubes tied isn’t the form of pregnancy prevention that works for you, there are many other options. Some low-maintenance options that are 99% effective include IUD and a birth control implant.

IUD: This is a tiny device that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. Different FDA-approved brands may use copper or hormones to prevent sperm from getting to the egg. While it is long-term, it is also reversible. The IUD lasts 3 – 12 years and is 99% effective. This method can cost $0 – $1,300.
Birth Control Implant: This implant, also known as Nexplanon, is a small thin rod that is inserted into your arm. It releases hormones into the body that prevent pregnancy. This method is reversible and can last up to 5 years. It is 99% effective and costs $0 – $1,300.

Requirements for Getting Your Tubes Tied

The first step in determining whether you qualify for tubal ligation is to check the age requirements set by both your state and your medical insurance provider.

Laws governing sterilization procedures vary from state to state, and some states may have minimum age requirements or additional consent rules. For example, certain states may require patients under a specific age to undergo counseling or wait a designated period before proceeding with the procedure.

Your insurance provider may also have its own age requirements if you’re hoping to have the procedure covered. While private insurance companies may follow state guidelines, federally funded programs like Medicaid have stricter requirements. For example, if you’re using Medicaid or another federally funded plan, you must be at least 21 years old and considered “mentally competent” to consent to the procedure.

Additionally, federal guidelines require a mandatory waiting period of 30 days between giving informed consent and having the procedure performed. This waiting period is designed to ensure that the decision is voluntary, well-informed, and not made under pressure or emotional distress. The consent process includes receiving detailed information about the procedure, its permanence, and possible alternatives.

When Can I Have Sex Again After Getting My Tubes Tied?

It’s usually recommended to wait about a week before having sex again. This gives your body time to start healing and lowers the risk of infection or complications.

If You Recently Had a Baby

If your tubal ligation was done right after childbirth, the timeline is different. Typically, it’s best to wait about six weeks or until your healthcare provider gives you the green light. This waiting period allows your body to recover from childbirth and ensures any stitches or incisions from the procedure have healed properly.

Individual Healing Process

Keep in mind that everyone heals at their own pace. Your doctor will give you specific advice based on your overall health, the details of your surgery, and any complications that may have occurred. It’s important to listen to your body, follow your doctor’s guidance, and take things at your own pace.

Talking openly with your partner and healthcare provider will help ensure that your return to sexual activity is safe and comfortable.

Cost of Tubal Ligation

The cost of tubal ligation can vary widely. The final price will depend on what kind you get and whether or not your health insurance company will cover some of the procedure or even the full cost. Tubal ligation costs range from $0 to $6,000. To find out what you might be paying, schedule an appointment with Dr. Lodge.

Schedule a Consultation for Tubal Ligation

If you would like more information about the advantages of female sterilization or would like to know if this option of pregnancy prevention is right for you, please schedule an appointment with an experienced gynecologist. Dr. Jefrey Lodge is a compassionate and experienced women’s health doctor who can assess your current health status and give you the best options that will work for you.

Pros and Cons of Getting Your Tubes Tied