Whether it's your desire to not have any more children or your decision to never have any children, birth control is your personal choice. While birth control methods have become more popular than ever, it is an important decision and needs proper planning. Population control, small families, and rising expenses are some of the reasons that you may be considering going for a tubectomy. Tubectomy operation is one of the types of birth control measures.
If you are planning to get your tubes tied, it is important to know all about tubectomy. Let's understand what is tubectomy, its procedure, benefits and probable side effects.
What is a Tubectomy Operation?
Also known as tubal ligation, a tubectomy operation is a permanent birth control solution. For a pregnancy to happen, the sperm has to reach the eggs for the process of fertilisation. So, in this surgical procedure, the fallopian tubes are cut, tied, or sealed to prevent the sperm from reaching the eggs. Considered one of the effective birth control methods, different types of tubectomy have so far been safe and successful birth control measures.
Tubectomy operation is also known as tubal sterilisation. Remember, reversing the tubal ligation procedure can be very painful, expensive, and also difficult. Many people get it done after a C-section (Cesarean delivery) or any other abdominal surgery.
Difference between Vasectomy and Tubectomy
In short, vasectomy and tubectomy are both birth control measures. The contraception method in male reproductive organs is known as vasectomy, and that in a female is known as tubectomy. The tubectomy procedure has already been discussed above. Here, let's understand what a vasectomy is.
Vasectomy is a male sterilisation process in which the vas deferens (sperm ducts) are cut, separated and then tied together. Upon doing so, the sperm can longer mix with the semen. Hence, such an ejaculation is longer capable of causing pregnancy in a female. Both vasectomy and tubectomy are proven birth control methods.
Why is a Tubectomy done?
There can be various reasons why people go for birth control measures like tubectomy. Here are two possible reasons:
1. To Avoid Pregnancy
Women who do not wish to get pregnant further in life may choose to go for a tubectomy. It is 99% successful in avoiding pregnancy in women.
2. Medical Conditions
Due to certain underlying medical risks like ovary cancer, your doctor may suggest you remove the fallopian tubes. In such a situation also, women have to go for a tubectomy operation.
Types of Tubectomy
Tubectomy or tubal ligation can be done in three different ways. Here are the three types of tubectomy:
1. Laparoscopic Tubectomy
Under a laparoscopic tubectomy, two incisions are made at the navel and near the pubic bone after giving general anaesthesia. Using the incisions, a pencil-size tube is passed, and the abdomen is given carbon dioxide so as to have a clearer view.
Then, through the pubic hairline incision, a surgical instrument is inserted, and the fallopian tube is sealed. After the removal of the instrument, dissolvable stitches are done at both incisions. Patients may be able to leave the hospital within a few hours or a day.
2. Laparotomy
Laparotomy is an extensive type of tubectomy. It involves a larger incision in the abdomen of around 2-5 inches, after which the fallopian tube is closed. The recovery time may take up to a few weeks after 1-2 days of hospitalisation. Being an open abdominal surgery, people nowadays mostly prefer it during C-Section childbirth.
3. Mini-laparotomy Tubectomy
Many women go for Mini-laparotomy after 24 hours of vaginal childbirth. This is a mini-laparotomy as it requires a smaller incision and has the same tubectomy procedure as that of laparotomy. To avoid repetitive surgery and anaesthesia, mini-laparotomy is performed after vaginal childbirth. Epidural or spinal anaesthesia is given to the women in this procedure.
Side Effects of Tubectomy
Tubectomy is mostly a successful surgery. However, there are certain post-surgery pains that you may experience like abdomen discomfort and pain. The type of anaesthesia used and the type of tubectomy performed also decided the effects post-surgery. The following are the common tubectomy side effects:
- Shoulder pain
- Abdominal discomfort and cramps
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Sore throat
In case of surgery complications, one may experience:
- Vaginal discharge with a foul smell
- Blood or pus from incisions
- Vaginal bleeding for around a month
- Skipping the next menstruation and heavy flow in the next menstruation cycle
- Weakness
- Fever
- Pelvic pain
- Rashes or swelling around the incision
- Anaesthetic allergy
- Injury to other nearby organs like the uterus or bladder.
>> Also Read: Homebirth is it a Good Option to Opt For?
Tubectomy: Post-surgery Care
Your doctor may advise healthcare post-surgery for faster recovery and post-surgery safety, like:
Avoid heavy lifting for a few weeks. Heavy lifting puts pressure on your abdomen so, weight more than your baby should be avoided until you have recovered
- Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 24 hours. It may trigger the condition and cause discomfort
- Avoid swimming until the operation has healed
- Avoid bathing for a few days or a week, as suggested by the doctor
- Do not let gas build up in your abdomen. It may cause pain and bloating.
- Have light meals to heal nausea
- Over-the-counter medicines for abdominal pain may be suggested by your doctor. You may take it when the pain gets unbearable.
Things to Know about Tubectomy
Here are some quick facts about the tubectomy operation:
1. Effectiveness of Tubectomy Operation
Tubectomy procedures are usually very effective. The chances of getting pregnant are almost negligible.
2. Recovery after Tubectomy
The recovery period after a tubectomy operation depends on the type of tubectomy performed. In laparoscopic tubectomy, one may be discharged the same day and recover within a week. In laparotomy, you may be hospitalised for a day and it may take a few days to recover.
3. Eggs after Tubectomy
You may wonder what happens to the eggs after the tubectomy is done. The eggs released during ovulation break down and are gradually absorbed by the body itself.
4. STIs after Tubectomy
Tubectomy operation does not prevent STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections). So, you are still at the same risk of getting STIs.
5. Sexual Activities after Tubectomy
Depending on your health, the type of tubectomy performed, and the healing time, your doctor may better advise as to how long you must avoid sexual intercourse. It is usually advised to let it recover completely before beginning sexual activities.
6. Menstruation after Tubectomy
There is no effect on the menstruation cycle after tubectomy. One may skip the next menstruation cycle after surgery. However, post that, the menstruation cycle gets back to normal.
Let’s Conclude
Tubectomy is a permanent and safe way to prevent pregnancy. There are rare to no chances of pregnancy post-tubectomy operation. However, before going for any surgery, including tubal ligation, it is best to let your doctor decide the best for your health.
Tubectomy operation can be an expensive deal. To help you get the best healthcare without having to exhaust your savings, Care Health Insurance is here with maternity and other health insurance plans. Choose one as per your needs, and let Care be there for your medical needs.
We wish you good health!
Disclaimers: The above information is for reference purposes only: Policy Assurance and Claims at the underwriter's discretion.
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