Tubal Ligation

Tubal Ligation Reversal

Tubal ligation is a very common procedure in the United States and in Europe as a method of permanent birth control.  However, in many cases (up to 25% by some statistics) the woman decides after a tubal ligation that they want to add to their families after all, or because they are experiencing difficulties as a result of the tubal ligation such as post tubal ligation syndrome, and they opt for a reverse tubal ligation.  But what is involved in this procedure?

Similar to the ligation procedure, a reverse tubal ligation is major surgery that is usually performed in a hospital setting and will involve some recovery time.  It is usually performed under general anesthetic and usually takes between two to three hours, although this may vary depending upon your particular situation.

During the reverse tubal ligation, the surgeon will attempt to reconnect your Fallopian tubes.  Depending on the kind of tubal ligation you had, this may require removing clamps attached to your tubes, removing blockages inside your tubes, or reattaching your tubes together.

Following the surgery, you will probably have to stay in the hospital overnight for observation to ensure there are no adverse effects from the surgery or anesthetic.  If you are a particularly slow healer, you may be required to stay in the hospital for up to five days or so.  In total, you will be looking at a total recovery time of between four and six weeks following your reverse tubal ligation.

Although a reverse tubal ligation is considered very safe, there are risks involved.  These complications can include:

•    Bleeding, either internal or external
•    Infection at the site of the incision
•    Damage to, or infection in, the organs surrounding the Fallopian tubes
•    Allergic reaction to the anesthetic

Also similar to tubal ligation, reverse tubal ligation can increase your risk of having an ectopic pregnancy.  About one in 100 women experience ectopic pregnancy following a reverse tubal ligation.  Talk to your doctor to be sure you understand all the risks as well as the benefits of the surgery.