All About Fallopian Tube Reversal Surgery

Tubal ligation, also known as “having your tubes tied,” is a surgical procedure involving cutting, tying, or burning the fallopian tube to prevent pregnancy. This procedure blocks the fallopian tubes, stopping eggs from combining with sperm, implying that fertilization can’t take place. Thus, tubal ligation reversal surgery is often an effective treatment for blocked fallopian tubes.

If you’ve had a tubal ligation but are considering pregnancy, you still have options! Primarily, to conceive after this procedure are in vitro fertilization (IVF) and tubal ligation reversal surgery.

IVF is a great option because there is no necessity for fallopian tubes. It involves fertilizing an egg outside the body and implanting the embryo into the uterus. While IVF can be a straightforward route for some, it does come with its own set of advantages and challenges.

On the other hand, tubal ligation reversal is a surgical procedure wherein surgeons reconnect the fallopian tubes, letting sperm and eggs meet naturally. This option can make pregnancy possible again, but it also has its pros and cons to consider.

Each choice has unique benefits, so it’s essential to weigh them based on your circumstances. Whether you opt for IVF or tubal ligation reversal, learning about your options helps you make the best decision for your family planning journey.

Why is there a need for tubal ligation reversal surgery

Doctors suggest tubal ligation reversal when a woman chooses she wants to conceive again after previously getting permanent contraception. Life changes, like a new relationship or the loss of a child, can bring about this shift. The surgery reconnects the fallopian tube, allowing eggs and sperm to meet naturally. For women who want to conceive without IVF, it offers a chance to try again. Success depends on factors like age, health, and the type of ligation, but for many, it brings renewed hope for starting or growing a family.

What happens before, during and after tubal ligation surgery?

Before the procedure: Preparation is the first and foremost step for a smooth surgical experience. Before you get tubal ligation reversal, inform your surgeon about any medications, herbs, or supplements, including over-the-counter ones. Certain medications, such as:

Aspirin
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Naproxen (Aleve)
Blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin)

Your doctor may advise you to pause before surgery because they affect blood clotting.

If you smoke, now is a good time to consider quitting, as smoking impacts your recovery and overall health. Discussing this with your doctor provides support and resources to help you quit. These steps will make your surgery safer and smoother.

During the procedure: Doctors usually perform tubal ligation reversal under general anesthesia and it takes about 1-2 hours to complete. The surgeon makes a small incision in your abdomen to gain access to the fallopian tubes. They then reconnect the tubes, ensuring that the pathways for sperm and eggs are open. Depending on the method your doctor used for your original tubal ligation, the technique for reversal may differ, but the aim is to restore the natural flow.

After the procedure: Post-surgery, a short recovery period is necessary. Take it easy for a few days and avoid physically straining activities like heavy lifting, rigorous workout, running, etc. Your fertility specialist gives you specific post-care instructions about when you can resume normal activities, including sexual intercourse.

Most women return to their usual routines within a week or so. But it’s essential to follow the tips for speedy recovery. You may also have follow-up appointments to track your healing and discuss any questions you might have about trying to conceive again.

Who is an ideal candidate for tubal ligation reversal?

Surgery to reverse a tubal reversal is not appropriate for everyone. Although your doctor will ultimately have the last say, the following reasons come under the eligibility criteria:

Along with other factors, your age is a crucial consideration for tubal reversal. You may still need IVF therapy and surgery is not recommended if your partner is sperm-free and requires a testicular biopsy.

It matters what kind of tubal ligation you underwent. Reversal is not possible if the fimbria, the end of your tubes, were removed in the previous procedure. Also, it depends on the length of the fallopian tube which is remaining.

As with any surgical operation, including tubal reversal, your overall well-being is a crucial factor. In cases when you have a significant risk of surgery, reversal might not be the best option.

Even with IVF therapy, there is still a chance that you could become pregnant. In such cases, doctors evaluate you thoroughly. In certain cases, the best alternative might be to use a gestational carrier or surrogate mother.

Are there any risks of tubal ligation reversal surgery?

Reversing a tubal ligation has relatively little risk. But like with any surgical procedure, there is a chance of problems, such as:

Infection
Hemorrhaging or thrombosis
Allergic response to sedation
Damage resulting from surgery to other organs

Although there is a chance of an ectopic pregnancy after a tubal ligation reversal, it is still almost nil. After a tubal reversal, 2% to 7% of pregnancies result in ectopic pregnancies. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when an embryo (fertilized egg) implants in your fallopian tube rather than the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency which only specialized doctors attend.

All About Fallopian Tube Reversal Surgery