Tubal ligation is a permanent, but sometimes reversible form of female sterilization, in which the fallopian tubes are severed and sealed, in order to prevent fertilization.

In women, a tubal ligation can be done in many forms, through a vaginal approach, through laparoscopy, a minilaparotomy ("minilap"), or through a regular laparotomy. Also, a distiction is made between postpartum tubal ligation and interval tubal ligation, the latter not being done after a recent delivery. There are a variety of tubal ligation techniques; the most noteworthy are the Pomeroy type that was described by Ralph Pomeroy in 1930, the Falope ring that can easily be applied via laparoscopy, and tubal cauterization done usually via laparoscopy. In addition, a bilateral salpingectomy is effective as a tubal ligation procedure. A tubal ligation can be performed as a secondary procedure when a laparatomy is done, i.e. a cesarean section. Any of these procedures may be sometimes referred to as having one's "tubes tied."

Reversal

Generally tubal ligation procedures are done with the intention to be permanent, and most patients are satisfied with their sterilizations. However, some types of procedure can be reversed with surgery, notably those that leave a sizable amount of tubal tissue in place, i.e. the Pomeroy type of tubal ligation or the Falope ring application. In contrast, tubal ligation with the use of cautery, or a salpingectomy are generally poor or no candidates for reversal. However, in vitro fertilization can overcome fertility problems in patients with tubal occlusion due to any type of tubal ligation.

See also

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• Sterilization (surgical procedure)

Surgical contraception