Should You Get Your Tubes Tied? (Answer These Questions First)

It’s a big step that will affect the rest of your life, so we understand if you’re not sure about it.

A tubal ligation—also referred to as getting your “tubes tied”—is a popular method of permanent birth control. However, before undergoing this procedure, you should carefully evaluate your situation.

We encourage women to speak with us so we can guide them through some of these important questions they should answer before considering a surgery to get their tubes tied.

What Does It Mean to Have Your Tubes Tied?

This method of female sterilization blocks or cuts your fallopian tubes. Eggs travel through this tube “track.” They follow the fallopian tube to your uterus.

After the surgery, you can still have sex as you normally would—some women even report an enhanced sex life because they no longer have to worry about getting pregnant.

You will still have monthly periods after having a tubal ligation.

How Effective Is a Tubal Ligation?

Less than 1 out of 100 women will be pregnant within one year of having their tubes tied, according to the latest statistics from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Ask These Questions Before Getting Your Tubes Tied

We’re always available to talk to you about what forms of birth control would be right for you, whether it’s using an IUD or permanent sterilization.

If you’re considering a tubal ligation, following are some questions you should ask yourself:

Am I through having children?

This is the most obvious question. While a tubal ligation can be reversed, it is very difficult to get pregnant afterward. In fact, only around half are able to become pregnant after their tubes are reattached. Make sure that you do not want to have children—or to have any additional children.

How does my partner feel about the procedure?

If you have a partner at the time you’re considering the procedure, it’s important to let them know of your plans. Discussion ensures that both of you are on the same page.

How risky is pregnancy for me?

Some women have underlying medical conditions that make getting pregnant a risky endeavor. If you are one of these women, we encourage you to speak to us about how this surgery can help you.

Is my partner willing to get a vasectomy?

A vasectomy can be just as effective—if not more so—than getting your tubes tied. If you have a partner, be sure to speak with them about this possibility. It’s important to do this before you decide to get your tubes tied.

Do I truly understand that this is permanent?

While a tubal ligation can be reversed, it’s still highly unlikely you’ll get pregnant after that procedure.

Can You Get Pregnant With Your Tubes Tied?

It’s possible, but not common. Tubal ligation is, overall, a very effective form of permanent birth control.

Have your tubes tied just after your period. This keeps a fertilized egg from making its way to the uterus.

Tubal Ligation Surgery Through Associates in Women’s Healthcare

When we perform a tubal ligation procedure, we’re able to do the surgery laparoscopically. We insert a long, thin tube called a laparoscope through a small incision. Therefore, there is no need for a large, “open” incision, which equates to a faster and easier recovery.

If you have any questions, just ask us. We’re happy to help.

How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Tubal Ligation?

Typically, after a tubal ligation, you’re able to go home the same day as surgery. We may use general anesthesia (where you will be “asleep” during the procedure) or use spinal anesthesia (where you are awake but you don’t feel any pain.)

While every case is different, in general, if you’ve had the surgery performed laparoscopically, you can expect to recover within one week.

Associates in Women’s Healthcare: With You Throughout All Stages of Life

Whether you’re expecting your first child or you’re considering getting your tubes tied, we want to be your home for the compassionate, state-of-the-art care you deserve. See why women throughout the Triangle area select us as the leading gynecologists in Raleigh.