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What are the Pros and Cons of a Tubal Ligation After Pregnancy?

Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers

Women interested in avoiding pregnancy just after having had a baby may be considering tubal ligation, which is typically permanent. This form of birth control is quite effective against pregnancy, and since there are no hormones involved, the woman's libido usually remains unaffected by it. There is also no maintenance since it is a one-time procedure, and does not require that the woman remember to swallow pills or use internal devices. While it is typically easy to do just after the birth of a baby, it may result in abnormal bleeding and some discomfort. Additionally, it is permanent, and if the woman does conceive despite a tubal ligation after pregnancy, she is more at risk to have an ectopic pregnancy.

Many women who have just given birth are worried about getting pregnant again, especially soon after having a baby. A tubal ligation after pregnancy is the right choice for some women, especially those who are sure that they do not want any more children. It is particularly ideal for women who choose to breastfeed since its lack of hormones makes it safer for nursing than many birth control options. The fact that it does not have hormones also typically allows the woman's libido and weight to stay the same, unlike many hormonal birth control methods. Additionally, there is no need to remember to take a pill, insert a device, or make sure the male is wearing protection when a woman gets a tubal ligation after pregnancy.

A diagram of the female reproductive system, including the fallopian tubes.
A diagram of the female reproductive system, including the fallopian tubes.

The unfortunate side of this procedure is the fact that it is considered minor surgery, and thus has the potential for excessive bleeding, infection, and discomfort. Of course, some women opting for a tubal ligation after pregnancy choose to get it on the same day that they deliver their baby. It can usually be done during either a c-section or vaginal delivery, which means that it requires few extra risks, as the side effects are typically the same as the recovery after delivery. Therefore, many women find it ideal to get a tubal ligation just after delivery rather than waiting.

As tubal ligation is considered a minor surgery, it has the potential to cause excessive bleeding, infection and discomfort.
As tubal ligation is considered a minor surgery, it has the potential to cause excessive bleeding, infection and discomfort.

The fact that this surgery is permanent is appealing to many women, but it can also be considered a downside since some women may change their minds. While reversal of tubal ligation is sometimes possible, allowing some women to become pregnant after the surgery, it cannot be counted on. Additionally, there are some cases in which a woman can get pregnant despite this surgery, in which case she has a higher chance than normal of having an ectopic pregnancy. Thus, a tubal ligation after pregnancy is not typically a procedure that most women should take lightly due to both its risks and its permanence.

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    • A diagram of the female reproductive system, including the fallopian tubes.
      By: Alila
      A diagram of the female reproductive system, including the fallopian tubes.
    • As tubal ligation is considered a minor surgery, it has the potential to cause excessive bleeding, infection and discomfort.
      By: 9nong
      As tubal ligation is considered a minor surgery, it has the potential to cause excessive bleeding, infection and discomfort.
    • Some women may change their minds about conceiving after having a tubal ligation.
      By: Monkey Business
      Some women may change their minds about conceiving after having a tubal ligation.