Tubectomy

Tubectomy, also called as Tubal Ligation is a method of contraception or birth control for females. It is used as a permanent birth control measure.

There are many procedures of contraception that are used by men and women. Some are temporary and others are permanent. Tubectomy is an example of the permanent type. It is a surgical procedure.

History

Tubal ligation was first performed in 1880 by Dr Samuel Lungren in Toledo from the U.S. Despite being an effective method of contraception, it has been misused since then, especially against minorities. Certain governments have used it as part of forced sterilization campaigns.

What is Tubectomy?

The term simply means removal of the fallopian tubes. It is also called salpingectomy. Another term used is tubal ligation, which means that the fallopian tubes are blocked, or tied.

The various methods of tubectomy
The various methods of tubal ligation. (Source)

How Does The Procedure Work?

In the procedure, a surgery (the tubectomy operation) is performed, usually via the torso (abdomen). Then the Fallopian tubes are either completely removed, or firmly held shut by some clips. The end goal in either process is to prevent the eggs from being fertilized. The removal of fallopian tubes makes a physical obstacle from fertilization from happening. Thus, this prevents pregnancy. 

The patients usually need a few days recovery after which they can return to daily activities. 

Risks in Tubectomy Operation

Tubal ligation, being a surgical procedure, has the general risks associated with surgery. Complications with anaesthesia, need for blood transfusion, chance of infection, and so on can happen during tubectomy operation. 

It also has a slight chance of failure, i.e. unintended pregnancy, even after procedure. The chances of failure depend on the specific method used, and the patient’s age and history. The chance of failure is generally around 1%. 

Further, there are higher chances that the unintended pregnancy, though rare, is ectopic, i.e. happens outside the uterus.

Tubectomy and Vasectomy

Vasectomy is a similar contraception procedure that is performed on males. In the procedure, the male’s vasa deferentia are surgically sealed to prevent sperm from joining the semen. Thus, it prevents pregnancy from happening. 

Compared to tubectomy, it has a higher success rate. It is also less invasive and takes less time to perform. However, globally, more women have undergone tubectomy, than men who have undergone vasectomy. 

FAQs

What is tubectomy?

Tubectomy is a permanent surgical birth control method for females. In the process, the Fallopian tubes are blocked of via an operation, to prevent ova from being fertilized. 

Do you still get periods after tubectomy?

Yes, women still have normal periods after tubectomy. The only difference is that chance of unwanted pregnancy is very low. 

Can a woman still get pregnant after tubectomy?

While tubal ligation is largely successful, there is a small chance that unintended pregnancies can happen. The specific chances depend on the particular technique used. Risk varies with patient age and history, but is around 1% generally. 

What part is removed during tubectomy?

The Fallopian Tube is either removed or blocked off during tubal ligation. Due to this, eggs from the ovaries do not get fertilized. 

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