Are You Ready for Tubal Ligation?

Many women have said in jest, after dealing with several children all day, that they'd gladly have their tubes tied. But it's actually a serious decision to opt for tubal ligation. Before you take a step this big, let's look at what's involved in the procedure.

Tubal ligation is the general name for a surgical procedure which blocks your fallopian tubes so eggs can't be fertilized. Because it's a surgical intervention, it's much more permanent than other forms of birth control.

There are several different ways tubal ligation is accomplished. One procedure uses electric current to make a small (painless) burn on each fallopian tube so that a scar will form, blocking the tubes. Another way tubal ligation is done is with a small mechanical device attached to the tubes to close them off. Should you decide on tubal ligation, be ready to ask your doctor which method they normally use.

No matter which method will be used, there are two ways tubal ligations are done. One is shortly after a woman gives birth, and is called "postpartum tubal ligation." The other is called a "bilateral laparoscopic tubal ligation" and is accomplished by use of a scope and instruments through three small incisions in the abdomen.

And so, the surgical procedure known as "tubal ligation" is considered to be a permanent form of birth control, with a very low failure rate. Like any surgery, it involves some risks, and your doctor should be able to explain them to you.

That should give you a quick overview of what a tubal ligation involves. Be prepared, when you meet with your doctor, to ask any questions you may have about the procedure, its risks and rare complications like future pelvic pain.

But there's another whole set of questions to ask yourself. Because tubal ligation is a serious step that ends your ability to bear children, you may want to consider these questions:

1. How many children do you now have, or have you chosen to be child free?
2. If there's a partner or spouse in your life, how will a tubal ligation affect your relationship?
3. Do you have a medical condition that can cause surgical complications?
4. Are you ambivalent about perhaps wanting children in the future?

Weigh your answers to these questions carefully when deciding on a permanent change in your child-bearing ability. No matter what your decision is, arm yourself with good information about what to expect. Write down any questions that come up and take them to your doctor's appointment.

With the right information, women are empowered to make good decisions about their health care. When considering tubal ligation, combine what you know about your own situation with the right questions to ask your doctor. You will have a list of the necessary questions to ask your doctor, and with the information your doctor provides, make a decision that's right for your life.