What Is Laparoscopic Tubal Sterilization?

Laparoscopic tubal sterilization is surgery to block the fallopian tubes. It may be called having your tubes tied. It's done to prevent pregnancy. During surgery, a thin, lighted tube called a laparoscope is used. This allows surgery to be done through small incisions. Tubal sterilization is considered permanent birth control. Having it means you won't be able to get pregnant again. In some cases, a reversal can be tried, but it's not often successful. Never plan to have this procedure if you think you may want a reversal later.

Discuss all of your choices with your partner and your healthcare provider.

How effective is surgery?

This surgery is one of the most effective birth control methods. But in very rare cases, pregnancy can still occur. In some cases, the pregnancy is normal. In other cases, a fertilized egg may start to grow in a fallopian tube. This is called a tubal (ectopic) pregnancy. It needs emergency care. Talk with your healthcare provider if you have questions about this risk.

The female reproductive system

During each menstrual cycle, one of the ovaries releases an egg. This egg travels into a fallopian tube. After vaginal sex, sperm can enter the tube and fertilize the egg. The fertilized egg then implants in the wall of the uterus. If the egg isn’t fertilized, it's absorbed by the body. Or it’s discharged during your monthly period. 

After tubal sterilization

After surgery, each ovary still releases an egg. But the egg’s passage through the fallopian tube is now blocked. Sperm also can’t pass through the tube to the egg. When egg and sperm can’t meet, pregnancy can’t happen. The egg is absorbed by your body. You’ll keep having menstrual periods until menopause.

Problems with tubal sterilization

Problems with tubal sterilization are rare. They can include:

• Infection

• Bleeding

• Damage to blood vessels, nerves, or muscles

• Damage to the bladder, ureters, or bowel, needing surgical repair

• Blood clots in the legs or lungs

• Failure to block the fallopian tubes (very rare)

• Formation of scar tissue

• Hernia formation