Permanent Birth Control For Women

Permanent Birth Control For Women

Permanent birth control for women is usually optional, but for some, it is a medical necessity. Currently, there are several methods of permanent birth control that prove to be effective in preventing pregnancy.

Types of Permanent Birth Control

Tubal Ligation

Tubal ligation is one way of sterilization that involves tying, burning or clipping the ends of the fallopian tubes. This method is successful in preventing the egg from entering the uterus, where it has the possibility of being fertilized. The procedure used to perform this method of sterilization is called electrocauterization. Years ago, this procedure was performed vaginally, and recovery time took weeks or even months. Today there are safer alternatives to the traditional tubal ligation. There are currently three types of tubal ligations that can be performed.

1. Mini-laparotomy

A mini-laparotomy is done within a 48-hour period after the mother has given birth. This procedure takes an average of up to 20 minutes to complete. This procedure requires no major surgery and can be done while the patient is under local anesthesia. This method of permanent sterilization for women has been preferred more so than oral contraceptives.

2. Laparscopic

The second type of tubal ligation is laparoscopic. It involves placing carbon dioxide inside the abdomen, using a small incision. This procedure requires the delicate hands of specially skilled doctors, due to the use of special surgical equipment. The recovery time is quicker and fewer complications are expected. The time frame allocated to perform this procedure is usually ten minutes. The fallopian tubes are fused with a laser or other electronic device and tied off with clips or bands.

3. Laparoscopy

The third type of tubal sterilization is the laparoscopy. This procedure is invasive and is commonly performed after a cesarean delivery. This type of surgery allows the doctor more freedom, and more room to carry out this procedure because the fallopian tubes are more visible.

Hysteroscopic Sterilization

Hysteroscopic sterilization is a method of permanent birth control that can be performed on an outpatient basis. A small thin tube is inserted into the opening of the fallopian tubes through the vagina to prevent pregnancy. This mild procedure has minimal side effects, and the downtime expected after this procedure is 24 hours. Several months after the surgery an imaging x-ray may be required to verify the accurate position of the device.

Essure Sterilization

Essure is a way of sterilization that is popular amongst many women. The procedure involves no surgery, no use of lasers, and no altering of the fallopian tubes. This method is more than 99% effective, requires no anesthesia, and no hormonal shots. Inserts, which are silicone free, are placed inside the fallopian tubes to block the onset of pregnancy, by preventing the egg from reaching the uterus. Essure can be done in the doctor's office in about 10 minutes or less. Doctors who are specially trained to perform the Essure procedures should be consulted to learn more about the procedure.

Centuries ago, womens' choices of sterilization were almost non-existent. Especially compared to the numerous sterilization methods in place today. Women of the past were faced with one sure-fire method of preventing pregnancy: abstinence. Today women have the opportunity to choose their method of permanent sterilization. Tubal ligation was the only other choice that was available, just a few decades ago, which left women very limited options. Thanks to modern science, permanent sterilization for women has grown to the point where women are given more choices, more freedom, and more control over their bodies.

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