Tubal Ligation (Laparoscopic Sterilization):

Sterilization is a permanent method of birth control and is one of the most common forms of birth control among women. Women often seek a permanent method of birth control for specific reasons, such as having a certain number of children or other circumstances. Therefore, tubal ligation (tying the fallopian tubes) is an effective solution for this.

What is the process of tubal ligation:

The fallopian tubes are the channels that transport eggs or fertilized eggs to the uterus for implantation and fertilization. In tubal ligation surgery, the fallopian tubes are removed or cut and tied with a special thread, clips, or electric current to prevent sperm from reaching them and thus prevent pregnancy. The procedure is performed in a hospital or outpatient medical centers. Sterilization may be done immediately after a cesarean section or several days after vaginal delivery. This procedure can be done in two ways:
1- Mini-laparotomy: A small incision is made in the abdomen to perform the surgical procedure to completely close the fallopian tubes.
2- Laparoscopy: This is the most commonly used method and leaves fewer scars on the abdomen. A very small incision is made to insert a thin, illuminated scope with special instruments for surgery. The incision is made in or near the navel to insert the scope. The doctor may make another incision to insert the instruments, or use the same incision. The fallopian tubes are closed with threads, clips, or electric current, and then the incision is closed with stitches or a special tape.
- General anesthesia is used in both types of surgeries, but laparoscopic surgery is better than mini-laparotomy because it results in faster healing and fewer complications, and you usually do not need to stay in the hospital and can leave after a few hours.

Risks associated with laparoscopic sterilization:

In general, this procedure does not carry many complications. The most common complications are related to the use of general anesthesia. If electric current is used to close the fallopian tubes, there is a risk of skin or intestinal burns. Other risks include bleeding, infection, and inflammation.
Although pregnancy is very rare (pregnancy occurs in 18-37 out of 1000 women who have undergone sterilization), if it does occur, the incidence of ectopic pregnancy in those who have had this surgery is higher than in women who have not had it.

Post-Procedure:

You may experience some symptoms, which is normal. Please consult your doctor immediately if these symptoms do not improve within several days to a week, or if you experience unbearable pain:
1- Dizziness
2- Nausea
3- Shoulder pain
4- Sore throat (due to anesthesia tube use)
5- Cramping

When to Avoid Sterilization:

In reality, the choice of sterilization should be personal and based on complete conviction because it is a permanent method of birth control. You should not be under psychological pressure (such as divorce or pressure to have children). The decision should come from yourself and not from pressure from a partner to avoid regret after the procedure. Additionally, factors such as personal choice, weight, medical history, and previous surgeries may influence the decision. You should discuss the available options with a gynecologist without rushing, as there are many temporary methods that may suffice. Your doctor may recommend consultation with a psychiatrist if you are under psychological and social pressures.

Some Questions You Can Ask:

- Does tubal ligation protect against sexually transmitted diseases?
Tubal ligation does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases including HIV, HPV, syphilis, and others.
- Can I get pregnant after undergoing laparoscopic sterilization surgery?
Most attempts to reverse sterilization have unfortunately been unsuccessful, highlighting the importance of your choice and conviction before the procedure. Additionally, attempting pregnancy after the procedure may lead to further complications such as ectopic pregnancy and other issues.
- Does sterilization affect menstrual cycles?
Menstrual cycles are not affected by tubal ligation. Your doctor may prescribe medications such as birth control pills to regulate your menstrual cycle if it was irregular before the procedure.
- How long should I wait before resuming sexual activity?
Ask your doctor about the period during which you should abstain from sexual activity. Typically, you should refrain until you feel completely comfortable (usually waiting for a week, but this period may extend to 4 weeks if sterilization was performed after childbirth).