Tubectomy, a popular method of contraception

Introduction

Tubectomy or Tubal Sterilisation is a surgical procedure which has become an increasingly prevalent form of contraception in India. This procedure ensures that the fallopian tubes are blocked-clamped, sealed or severed, to prevent the eggs from reaching the uterus for implantation. It is a permanent method of sterilisation or birth control. Women willing to avoid pregnancy or consecutive child birth opt for this treatment.

Can this procedure be reversed?

Tubectomy is a permanent form of contraception or birth control for women, and there is no reversal.

Who is eligible or not for Tubectomy treatment?

Women looking for a permanent solution to controlling childbirth and pregnancy can opt for this surgery but prior to the treatment, certain tests are carried out in order to make ensure the patient has no history of abdominal surgery or other medical complications like heart ailments and lung problems, or any complication due to anaesthesia.

How is Tubectomy surgery done?

The procedure begins by administration of anaesthesia to the patient in an operation theatre. Tubectomy can also be performed soon after delivery by making a small incision near the navel (called a mini-laparotomy) or it can also be done soon after cesarean or C-section delivery. It can also be carried out as an outpatient procedure (interval tubal ligation) that is separate from childbirth in which an interval tubal ligation is done with a laparoscope – a thin tube equipped with a camera lens and light under general anaesthesia. Then with the help of instruments that were inserted through the laparoscope or from the second incision the Fallopian tubes are coagulated or brought to a semi-solid state, to be cauterized (burned) or obstructed by using a small clip. After doing this the skin is stitched.

Recovery after Tubectomy

Rest is prescribed depending upon the type of tubectomy performed. If it is a laparoscopic tubectomy then it takes about 1 week to get fully recovered. If it is mini-laparotomy then it takes about 1-3 weeks’ time to recover and if mini-laparotomy is done after the delivery then it may take longer to recover. The recovery depends on the condition and medical history of the patient. If necessary precautions are taken, the patient is likely to get back to leading a normal life soon after the operation.

Periods after Tubectomy are normal as Tubectomy only involves the tying of the fallopian tubes and the ovulation process is not stopped. There is also no weight gain due to Tubectomy as there are no hormonal changes nor any appetite changes.

Wait for sex after Tubectomy

If you want to have sex after tubectomy then you should wait for 1-2 weeks. If women feel comfortable they can have sex.

Side Effects of Tubectomy

Major complications are rare, but if you have diabetes or a history of previous abdominal surgery, pelvic inflammatory disease, or lung disease, or are overweight, you may have a higher risk for problems. Possible complications to watch out for post tubectomy include bleeding from a skin incision, pain after the procedure, infection, side effects from anesthesia, an ectopic pregnancy (an egg that becomes fertilized outside the uterus), incomplete closing of a fallopian tube, which can result in pregnancy. Again, be aware that these complications are rare.