Women who previously had tubal ligation and who now wish to become pregnant again will need tubal ligation reversal. During tubal ligation, fallopian tubes are cut and cauterized together. Tubal ligation reversal aims to reopen fallopian tubes so that the patient may attempt to become pregnant again.
What is involved with tubal reversal?
Sometimes called tubal ligation reversal or re-anastomosis, tubal reversal involves making abdominal incisions, identifying fallopian tubes and taking out the sections that were previously burned. Those sections are removed, and then fallopian tubes are reconnected back together with sutures under surgical microscope. General anesthesia is used during this outpatient procedure.
While this surgery is a welcomed solution to the permanent procedure of tubal ligation, there is not a 100 percent success rate. Women who are interested in this procedure have often passed traditional childbearing years. So although the potential to become pregnant again is present, the ability or guarantee to become pregnant depends on multiple factors.
What should I expect after tubal reversal?
Tubal reversal patients will be able to return home on the same day as the surgical procedure. Patients will have to wait three months for fallopian tubes to completely heal. They should abstain from any heavy lifting and practice birth control for three months.
What are the risks?
Tubal reversal carries normal surgery risks, such as:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Anesthesia complications
Additionally, there is the potential for scar tissue to reform after tubal reversal. This can re-block the fallopian tube and prevent the potential for pregnancy to occur.
Tubal reversal gives women who previously had tubal ligation the hope to potentially become pregnant once again, despite having a surgery that acts as permanent birth control. Dr. Pei would be happy to meet with you to discuss whether tubal reversal is an option for you.
To learn more about tubal ligation reversal, or to set up a consultation, please call Dr. Pei’s office at (703) 698-9668.