Female Sterilization (tubal ligation)

What Is It?

Surgical procedure to block the fallopian tubesTubal occlusion is a voluntary surgical procedure for permanently terminating a woman's fertility.

How Does It Work?

Egg and sperm cannot meet. Fertilization does not occur.

How Is It Used?

Local or general anesthesia is used. A surgical procedure is performed in which the tubes are cut, clipped or blocked. The method is permanent.

How Well Does It Work?

Typical use: 99.5%. Perfect use: 99.5%. Failure rate may be increased with some methods of tubal ligation.

What Are Its Main Advantages?

Permanent. Safe medical procedure (although male sterilization is easier and safer). Does not interfere with sex. Nothing to remember.

What Are Some Possible Problems?

May require a 30-day waiting period; may have minimum age requirement. Risks of surgery, including: reaction to anesthetic, infection and bleeding Temporary pain at surgical site. Some individuals later regret decision. If pregnancy occurs, risk of ectopic (tubal pregnancy) is high: Any symptoms of pregnancy should be reported to health care provider immediately and evaluated. Reversal requires surgery, is very expensive and may not be successful.