Female Sterilization

Female sterilization is a contraceptive technique employed in females and is found to be quite effective. This is a comparatively effortless procedure and is also termed as tubal ligation. The process intends to cut, shut or obstruct the fallopian tubes. This process thus avoids the travel of egg towards the sperms and gets fertilized. It is done by a gynaecologist and the patient needs to be under general anaesthesia. Recovery is possible within a few days. In 99% of the cases this family planning technique is found to be working perfectly. The age at which it is done and the method used often determines the success rate.

What is the need for it

It is performed on women who do not wish to get pregnant again. Prior to undergoing the surgery one should decide upon if it is needed or not. Almost women of all ages can undergo this procedure though it is mainly intended for women of reproductive age. A counselling before the surgery is always appreciated. This will help to eradicate all irrational fear as well as helps to decide between whether to undergo the procedure or not.

How is it done

There are several methods to carry out the procedure. The initial step involves the physician gaining a clear view of the internal reproductive organs. This is accomplished by

Laparoscopy:

It is one of the usually employed methods. A tiny incision is made on the abdominal wall by the physician and a device called laparoscope is inserted through it to obtain a clear view of the fallopian tubes.

Mini laparotomy:

This features an incision even smaller than the one made in laparoscopy and is located over pubic hairline. The surgeon takes the tube out, ligates it and replaces it. The techniques used to obstruct the tube are Partial salpingectomy, Clips, Silicone rings and Electro coagulation.

The procedure is completed within 30 minutes and is done under general anaesthesia. It can also be done along with a caesarean section or soon after the normal delivery.

Advantages

It is a safe and permanent contraceptive method that offers 99% success rate.
It also has the advantages like – no serious health consequences, no bad effect on sexual activities, won’t reduce sexual drive and won’t have an effect on the menstruation.

Disadvantages

Compared to vasectomy complexity is more. There is reduced risk of causing injury to adjacent organs. The tubes may rarely retort. It increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy. It cannot protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

Usually, following the surgery the patient may leave the hospital on the very same day itself. Does not involve in tasks, which require exertion of force for a few days. Bleeding and pain on a small scale is normal and need not worry about it. As it can’t guard you against sexually transmitted diseases, always keep in mind to use a barrier protection.