Dr Komalas Women Clinic - Sterlization

Sterilization

Women often prefer taking various birth control measures to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Sterilization by laparoscopy is the ultimate solution to achieve this goal. Laparoscopic sterilization is a medical procedure that offers permanent birth control to women. In this surgery, the fallopian tubes are removed or extracted from their original position, thus preventing future pregnancies. Sterilization by laparoscopy has a short recovery period.

What Happens in Laparoscopic Surgeries such as Sterilization?

The fallopian tubes seen on either side of the uterus extend towards the ovaries. Under normal circumstances, they receive eggs directly from the ovaries and transport them to the uterus. In this surgical process, the fallopian tubes are opened and removed or closed with a clip sealing so that the man’s sperm cannot reach the egg. This laparoscopic surgery helps the physician complete the tubal removal or tubal ligation by making a minute incision near the naval area. This minimally invasive surgery has benefits such as lesser recovery time and a lower risk of complications. In most cases, a woman can leave the hospital or the surgery facility within 3 to 4 hours after the laparoscopic surgery.

When Can One Opt for Sterilization Surgery?

Laparoscopic sterilization is an outpatient procedure that may be performed in the postpartum period, during uterine evacuation for a quick abortion, while terminating a pregnancy, or as an interval or gap procedure. Since this is a crucial decision in a woman’s life, it is very important for her to be in good physical and mental health during this time. 

Patients should also be well-informed about every aspect of this medical procedure, including the benefits and risks. Although this is one of the most convenient and safest forms of contraception, it is very important for women to carefully consider the consequences of this decision as it will result in the permanent loss of fertility.

How is Sterilization Performed?

Here’s the step-by-step surgical process of sterilization:

  • An IV or intravenous line is inserted into the vein of the patient’s hand or arm. 
  • To relax the muscles and prevent pain after surgery, patients are administered general anesthesia.
  • The surgery begins soon after, and an antiseptic will be applied to the skin. A speculum will be inserted into the vagina. 
  • After that, a device will be inserted gently into the uterus so that it can be positioned as required during the surgical process. 
  • Next, the surgeon makes a small incision near the navel area, and then the laparoscope is inserted. It is a thin viewing tube that is passed through the incision. 
  • The abdomen is inflated so that the organs are properly visible to the surgeon on the monitor. 
  • A special device is also inserted through the second incision meant for grasping the fallopian tube. This incision is made near the pubic hairline. 
  • The next most important step is sealing the fallopian tubes. This is done in two ways. It can be done through electrocoagulation, where an electric current clots the tube. It can also be sealed with the help of a clip or band placed over the tubes.
  • In a few cases, a device can also be used to separate the tubes from the ovaries and the uterus, and the tubes get removed from the body permanently. 
  • After the fallopian tube has been removed, the laparoscopic and the grasping device are taken out, washed, and a small bandage is applied over the incisions.

The Recovery Process after Sterilization Surgery

Since sterilization surgery is a minimally invasive medical process, it promotes quick recovery. 

  • Patients might feel initial discomfort in their abdomen as it might remain swollen for a few days after surgery. 
  • For pain relief, the physician may suggest a few painkillers and antibiotics. 
  • A few patients also experience a sore throat for several days. 
  • You might also experience mild nausea. Therefore, it is recommended to consume extremely light meals for easy bowel movements. 
  • Patients might suffer from gas and indigestion along with other discomforts, such as pain in the shoulder, neck, and chest for the next 24 to 72 hours after the surgery.
  • Some women also experience vaginal bleeding for one month right after the surgery, which is quite normal. 
  • However, in a few cases, women do not have their regular menstrual cycle for the next four to six weeks after the surgery. 
  • When women return to their normal menstrual cycle, they may notice heavier bleeding and discomfort than they usually experience in their regular period days.
  • Women may resume sexual activity a week after the surgery.

Risks or Complications of Sterilization

There is no risk as such after a patient undergoes sterilization by laparoscopy. One may contact their physician immediately if they experience: 

 

  • A high temperature above 100 degrees for more than 24 hours 
  • Persistent vomiting and nausea for more than 24 hours 
  • Swelling, redness, bleeding, or drainage surrounding the incision area 
  • Heavy bleeding with clots 
  • Other kinds of discomfort

Consult with the Best Physician for Undergoing Sterilization

Sterilization is a simple and minimally invasive process that most modern women prefer as the best birth control measure. If you want a permanent solution for unwanted pregnancy, connect with our physicians right away. Dr Komala’s Women Clinic has the best doctors to treat all kinds of gynecological issues. For any query or appointment booking, contact us today.

Sterilization must be avoided when facing stressful situations in life. Also, sterilization decisions should not be made under pressure.

Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) such as intrauterine device (IUD) and birth control implants are some effective alternatives to sterilization.

No. Tubal sterilization does not protect from sexually transmitted diseases.

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