Tubal ligation

TUBAL LIGATION (commonly called a "tie off) is a permanent method of family planning for women. It is usually marketed as a method for women who have had all the children they want and can care for. It is also the best method for women whose age or health might cause an unsafe pregnancy; women who make the decision to have the "tie off" themselves and who want to enjoy sexual intercourse without fear of an unwanted pregnancy. It is an effective method of contraception with a 99 per cent level of effectiveness.

A safe and simple operation by a health specialist will effectively "tie" the woman's Fallopian tubes. Each month when the egg (or ovum) is released, the Fallopian tubes carry the egg from the ovary to the uterus. During the tubal ligation operation, the tubes are reached either through the abdomen or the vagina and are closed off by tying them or applying rings to them. When these tubes are closed off, the man's sperm cannot reach the egg (which is released each month) and so there is no fertilisation and pregnancy cannot occur.

The operation only takes about 30 minutes.The woman would be allowed a few hours rest before going home. Most women will not have to stay overnight in hospital.

The woman can decide to have the operation at any time. It can also be done immediately after the birth of a baby, immediately after an abortion or six weeks or more after the birth of a baby.

Possible side effects

There is some pain in the belly after the operation. Use ordinary painkillers.

If the painkillers don't relieve the pain or if the pain goes on for more than 24 hours, return to the clinic.

Some women may also have pain in the shoulder for a short while afterwards.

There may be some vaginal bleeding

If you have any problems, go back to the place where you had the operation or your nearest clinic.

Inspite of its advantages (very effective, effective immediately, a permanent contraceptive, low-risk surgery and done easily and quickly) the disadvantage is that there is no protection against HIV/AIDS. The woman should always use a condom to protect herself from HIV/AIDS.

- The National Family Planning Board

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