July 4, 2008, Newsletter Issue #86: Alternatives to Tubal Ligation

Tip of the Week

A Tubal Ligation is considered to be permanent birth control. The procedure involves surgery to sever or cauterize your fallopian tubes, to prevent eggs from moving down the tubes and becoming fertilized, resulting in pregnancy. Because a tubal ligation is considered permanent, if you do decide to become pregnant, you may need to undergo a tubal ligation reversal, especially if you wish to have natural conception.

But tubal ligation is not the only option for reliable long-term birth control.  Other options include:

Implanon - small hormone-releasing "sticks" are implanted in your upper arm, which release small amounts of hormones, over a period of 3 years, to prevent pregnancy. The implants are removed after 3 years, during a brief office procedure. Risks include irregular periods, acne, weight gain and headache. Mirena - hormone-releasing intra-uterine implant, which lasts 5 years. Risks include post-procedure cramping, irregular periods, risk for pelvic infections. It cannot be used in women who have uterine fibroids.Copper intrauterine device - copper wire releases minute amounts of copper which make the uterine environment unfriendly to sperm and eggs. Risks include pelvic infection, post-surgical cramping, and longer and heavier periods. Removed after 5 years.If you think that there may be a chance that you will change your mind, after having a tubal ligation, it is best to discuss alternatives to tubal ligation, with your Gynecologist. Taking the time to look at alternatives, can reduce the chance that you may have to undergo a tubal ligation reversal, with its associated surgical risks.

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