Q. What is the medical term for tying your tubes?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
The medical term for tying your tubes is called tubal ligation. Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure used for female sterilization, where the fallopian tubes are cut and tied off to prevent pregnancy. This type of contraception has a very high success rate, with an estimated failure rate of less than one percent when done correctly. It is considered a permanent form of birth control that cannot be reversed easily. Another name commonly used to describe this process is "getting your tubes tied."
Tubal ligation can be done using either open (traditional) or laparoscopic surgery, through tiny incisions in the abdomen wall made by keyhole surgery. During the procedure, a surgeon will make cuts into each fallopian tube and seal them shut either through clipping them shut with small metal clamps or cauterizing them closed with electric current. Afterward, most patients experience minimal discomfort and can return home within 1-2 days following recovery from anesthesia and routine tests/observations if needed. Additionally, potential risks associated with having this procedure should always be discussed with your doctor prior to making any decisions about undergoing it.