Tubal ligation is one of the most widespread methods to prevent unwanted pregnancies, but is it effective? Is there a possibility of pregnancy if you undergo this type of intervention?
The fallopian tubes are two structures that connect both ovaries to the uterus. If its passage is interrupted, an egg can’t be fertilized, but you should know that it can fail on some occasions, although it is irreversible most of the time. That is why you must also be very sure of doing it.
In this FastlyHealarticle, you will find everything you need to know about tubal sterilization, whether or not the fallopian tubes regenerate and what the possible effects are after undergoing this surgery.
Table of Contents
What is tubal ligation?
The fallopian tubes are two small tubes located between the ovaries and the uterus and allow the passage of the ovum. Tubal ligation or tubal sterilization is a method that prevents pregnancy and is to prevent the course of the egg from the ovary to the uterus.
Various techniques can achieve this:
- Placing staples or rings that seal the passage.
- Sectioning the tubes.
- Burning them.
- Blocking its light from the inside and promoting healing inside the line.
- Removing them completely.
Do the fallopian tubes regenerate?
The section or ligation of the tubes is an irreversible contraceptive method. That is, there will be no turning back when the pipes are intervened in this way.
If you decide on this method, you must be very sure that you do not want to have a pregnancy in the future. This is especially important that you understand, especially if you are young, since you may change your mind, either because you have a new partner or simply because we all have the right to change what we think.
This method is considered relatively safe in terms of contraceptive effectiveness, but it does not mean it is equally for all women. It is not usually the method of choice in very young women, for the reasons I have explained to you previously.
As I have also told you, there are different ways to perform this type of surgery. All are performed under anesthesia. General anesthesia can be used to be completely asleep during the procedure or performed under spinal anesthesia. In the latter case, you will not feel anything from the waist down, and sedatives may or may not be administered during the intervention.
It can be performed during a cesarean section or after delivery or planned at another time, but always within an operating room. For this reason, it involves some preparation before its performance, and particular post-surgical care is also necessary. Among the considerations that are usually indicated are:
- Take rest.
- Avoid lifting weights.
- Not having sexual intercourse.
- Take care of the wound.
Frequently, when these indications are observed correctly, problems are less frequent. Although you must bear in mind that any surgery can present them. Possible complications include:
Injury to nearby tissues and organs
The bladder and the intestines or blood vessels can be injured during the procedure. Scars that may remain inside the abdomen are also a risk to consider.
Ectopic pregnancy
A pregnancy occurs and is implanted in a place other than the uterus. This is a very delicate condition, and it does not allow the incubation to reach term because it is a very light situation that puts the mother’s life at risk. See the Ectopic article pregnancy: symptoms, causes, and treatment for more information.
Incomplete closure of the tubes
In that case, there is a slight chance that an egg could pass through the tube, in which case the procedure would not be effective.
The tubes do not regenerate when removed or if the section is appropriately practiced, but if the severed ends of the box have been very close to each other, they may be joined again. A scar is usually left there, and it is infrequent that, even when they are rejoined, the ends are channeled and again allow an egg to pass through.
On the other hand, there is a slight possibility of reattaching the fallopian tubes. If for any reason you regret the ligation, recanalization may be attempted, but know that these attempts are not always successful.
What are the chances of getting pregnant after having my tubes cut?
There is a slight chance that the surgery will not prevent pregnancy. It has been calculated that this method may fail in approximately 1 in 100 women, producing pregnancy in the first year after tubal sterilization. This is more common in young women.
On the other hand, you should know that this method does not prevent sexually transmitted diseases, such as HIV, hepatitis, or gonorrhea. The only effective way for both objectives (avoiding pregnancy and preventing diseases) is the condom, in addition to having the advantage of being reversible.
What problems can tubal ligation bring?
Although it is not discussed much, it is described, and it is often seen in practice that tubal ligation can have long-term effects on women’s health.
According to Ayurveda, the ancient Hindu medicine, if the movement between the ovary and the tubes is interrupted, significant imbalances can be generated, especially in people with certain tendencies to dryness.
This type of imbalance known as Vata can be quite counterproductive, as it can lead to problems such as:
- Constipation.
- Dryness of the body and skin.
- Brittle nails
- Menstrual alterations with the possibility of early menopause.
- Headaches.
- Sleeping problems.
- Joint disorders such as joint pain, deformation, or noise.
- Circulation problems.
- Arterial hypertension.
- Memory problems.
Therefore, from this view of medicine, it is not a method usually indicated to prevent pregnancy, even more so because it is irreversible.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Do the fallopian tubes regenerate? We recommend that you enter our category of Female reproductive system.
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.