In India, female sterilisation is the most widely used modern contraceptive method. According to the National Family Health Survey, 38% of married women aged 15-49 rely on it, while 21% of sexually active unmarried women use it. Tubectomy remains the most common method overall.
For many women, this choice is driven by the desire to protect their health, manage family responsibilities, and maintain financial stability. Advances in surgical techniques have made the procedure quicker, safer, and less physically demanding, allowing women to return to their everyday lives sooner.
What Is Tubectomy?
Tubectomy, also known as tubal ligation or tubal sterilisation, is a permanent method of contraception for women. It is a surgical procedure in which the fallopian tubes are cut, blocked, or sealed to prevent the egg released by the ovary from reaching the uterus and being fertilised by sperm. The term “tubal” refers to the fallopian tubes, while “ligation” means tying.
The fallopian tubes, narrow passages connecting the ovaries to the uterus, are part of the female reproductive system. Positioned on either side of the uterus, they collect eggs from the ovaries and transport them toward the uterus. When the tubes are closed, sperm cannot reach the egg, and the egg cannot meet sperm, effectively preventing pregnancy.
Tubectomy is about 99% effective as a method of contraception. It may also be recommended if you are likely to carry a BRCA gene mutation, which increases the risk of ovarian cancer. The procedure can be performed after vaginal childbirth, during a Caesarean section, alongside another abdominal surgery, or as a standalone operation.
Although tubectomy can be reversed, reversal is often difficult, costly, and not always successful. Advances in medical techniques have made the procedure quicker, safer, and less physically demanding, allowing faster recovery.
Note: Tubectomy does not protect against common vaginal problems and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Tubectomy Procedure and Techniques
Tubectomy is most commonly performed using a minimally invasive approach called laparoscopy. A few small incisions are made in the abdomen, usually around the belly button. Through one of these openings, a telescopic device known as a laparoscope is inserted. This device has a tiny camera at its tip, which transmits high-resolution images to a monitor, allowing the surgeon to view the internal organs.
Using these images for guidance, the surgeon inserts fine surgical instruments through the other small incisions. The fallopian tubes are then sealed to block the passage of eggs from the ovaries to the uterus.
READ: 6 Myths about fertility
Types of Tubectomy Methods
The type of tubectomy depends on how the surgeon accesses the fallopian tubes and how the tubes are blocked. These two factors usually work together to determine the most suitable approach for each patient.
Surgical Access Methods (How the Surgeon Reaches the Tubes):
Laparoscopic Tubal Ligation
Two small cuts are made in the abdomen, one at the navel and one just above the pubic bone. A thin camera (laparoscope) helps the surgeon view the fallopian tubes, which are then sealed using clips, bands, rings, or electric current. Recovery is usually possible within a few hours.
Laparotomy
A larger abdominal incision (2-5 inches) is made, often after a C-section, using the same cut. The fallopian tubes are brought out, cut, and closed. Recovery can take a few weeks. This method is generally considered outdated except in specific situations.
Mini-Laparotomy
A smaller incision, usually performed within 24 hours after childbirth, allows the surgeon to reach and close the tubes using sutures (surgical thread), clips, or bands. Recovery is shorter than with a full laparotomy, and the incision is closed with dissolvable stitches.
Occlusion Methods (How the Tubes Are Blocked):
Bipolar Coagulation
An electric current is applied to sear and seal sections of the fallopian tubes, preventing the passage of eggs.
Monopolar Coagulation
Similar to bipolar, but uses a radiating electric current to seal and further damage the tubes for better outcomes.
Tubal Clip
A small clip is placed on each fallopian tube to block it permanently; sometimes the tubes are tied before clipping.
Tubal Ring
A small silastic (medical-grade silicone) band is placed around a loop of the fallopian tube to block it.
Fimbriectomy
The end portion of the fallopian tube (fimbrial end) near the ovary is removed or disconnected, creating a gap that prevents the tube from collecting eggs.
Recovery After Tubectomy Surgery
Many women often ask, “How many days of bed rest are needed after a tubectomy?” In most cases, patients can return home the very same day, and with proper rest and care, they can resume light activities within a few days.
Possible Side Effects of Tubectomy
Tubectomy is generally a safe procedure, though some discomfort is normal. The type and intensity of symptoms may vary depending on the anaesthesia used and the surgical method.
The most common side effects of tubectomy operations include:
- Pain and nausea during the first four to eight hours (short-term pain medication may be needed)
- Shoulder pain
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Nausea or fatigue
- Sore throat (from the breathing tube)
- Dizziness
Stitches are usually removed within 7 to 10 days, and a follow-up appointment with your surgeon is typically scheduled about six weeks after the tubectomy surgery.
READ: 6 Ways to Boost Female Fertility
Complications of Tubectomy
A few side effects of tubectomy are normal and usually resolve within a few days to a week. However, in some cases, complications may occur. The following are some tubectomy complications to be aware of:
- Pus or bleeding at the incision site
- Irregular vaginal bleeding
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Fever
- Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain
- Swelling or rash around the incision
- Allergic reactions to anaesthesia
- Injury to nearby organs, such as the bladder or uterus
- In rare cases, the fallopian tubes may reconnect, or a clip may fail
Certain factors, such as diabetes, endometriosis, obesity, or a history of abdominal surgery, can increase the risk of complications from a tubectomy.
READ: 10 Tips to Prepare for a Healthy Pregnancy After Miscarriage
Post-Tubectomy Care Guidelines
It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions for postoperative care. Some tips to ensure a smooth recovery include:
- Avoid intense exercise for at least a week.
- You may resume work within a few days, depending on your comfort level.
- Refrain from sexual activity for one week after the tubectomy surgery.
- Pain medication can help manage discomfort, but consult your doctor if the pain is severe.
- Contact your doctor immediately if you experience high fever, bleeding from the incision, fainting, or any other unusual symptoms.
Tubectomy is a major surgery with potential risks. It is important to understand the tubectomy procedure steps and follow proper guidance. Additionally, ensure the surgery is carried out at trusted gynaecology centres, such as Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, which is home to some of the leading gynaecologist specialists in Bangalore.
The Bottom Line
Tubectomy is a reliable and effective option for permanent contraception. Understanding the procedure, including the steps, potential risks, and recovery process, helps ensure a smoother experience.
Before undergoing tubectomy surgery, consider the following:
- Carefully weigh the reasons for choosing permanent sterilisation.
- Evaluate whether tubal ligation is the most suitable option for your needs.
- Be aware of potential side effects, risks, and complications associated with the procedure.
- Consider alternative contraceptive methods to determine if tubectomy is the best choice for your circumstances.
For more information, contact the experts at Apollo Cradle, who can guide you through the process and answer any questions.
