What is a Tubal Ligation Reversal?
A tubal ligation is also referred to as “having your tubes tied” and is performed to block the fallopian tubes and prevent pregnancy using one of several techniques.
Many women undergo tubal ligations thinking they have no desire to get pregnant again in the future. But what if her circumstances change and she changes her mind? This is where a tubal ligation reversal is needed.
If a woman who has previously had her tubes tied decides that she would like to become pregnant again, she would need a tubal ligation reversal. This surgery would free the previously blocked portions of the fallopian tubes reconnecting the two sections back together. If successful, it may make it possible for the egg to move through the fallopian tube unobstructed and allow sperm to reach it, resulting in fertilization.
Who is a Good Candidate for Tubal Ligation Reversal?
Women who are of childbearing age, do not have current medical conditions that would prevent a normal pregnancy, whose partner has a normal sperm analysis, and whose fallopian tubes are in good health and of adequate length, would be good candidates for tubal ligation reversal.
How does Tubal Ligation Reversal Surgery work?
Tubal ligation reversal surgery is done under general anesthesia (the patient is sleeping) and takes between 2 and 3 hours to perform.
Often, the surgeon will use laparoscopy to explore the current condition of the fallopian tubes and the feasibility of successfully re-connecting the tubes.
This is normally done through a tiny incision in the navel. If the surgeon determines that everything looks good, a small bikini-cut incision will be made just above the pubic hairline and the surgeon will laparoscopically reconnect the fallopian tubes with very fine sutures.
A hospital stay is not normally required, and the surgeon will discharge the patient with aftercare instructions and pain medications to recover at home. Normally, after 2 weeks patients can return to their regular activities.
Can all Tubal Ligations be Reversed?
Unfortunately, not all tubal ligations are able to be reversed. In some cases, the technique used to block the fallopian tubes damages them to the point that a reversal is not possible. Reversals most likely can be done in cases where the initial surgery used tubal clips or rings to close off the fallopian tube or only a small portion of the fallopian tube has been removed. Choosing an expert tubal ligation reversal doctor will be instrumental in achieving success with the procedure.
What is the Success Rate of Tubal Ligation Reversal?
Tubal Ligation Reversal success rates depend on many different factors, some of these include:
- The expertise of the microsurgeon.
- The overall health and age of the patient.
- The technique used to perform the tubal ligation.
- If there is an adequate length of the fallopian tube to work with – about 3”.
- The condition and health of the fallopian tube sections that are to be rejoined.
The success of Tubal Ligation Reversal is between 45-85%.
How much does Tubal Ligation Reversal Surgery cost?
The cost of a Tubal Ligation Reversal will vary depending on different factors that may include geographical location, the type of ligation being reversed, any pre-operative tests that may need to be performed, etc.
Tubal ligation reversal costs can range from $5,000-21,000 but the average reversal tubal ligation cost in the United States is approximately $8,685.
Reversal of Tubal Ligation costs are not usually covered by health insurance plans but IBI Healthcare Institute offers patient financing plans. During the initial consultation, we will discuss pricing and specifics unique to your situation. We regularly run Promotions for our procedures. Don’t miss to check tubal ligation reversal deals!
If you are interested in learning more about tubal ligation reversal in Atlanta, call us for a consultation today. You can even make an appointment online!
What are the Risks of Tubal Ligation Reversal Surgery?
- Bleeding.
- Infection.
- Damage to nearby organs.
- Adverse side effects from anesthesia.
- Increased risk of ectopic pregnancy – 5 in 100 pregnancies.
How long does it take to Get Pregnant after Tubal Ligation Reversal?
The goal of Tubal Ligation Reversal Surgery is to become pregnant and have a child. Surgeons normally run tests on both partners prior to scheduling a tubal ligation reversal to rule out any potential fertility issues. The tests will reveal the health of both the sperm and the egg, and determine if conceiving naturally is feasible.
Among couples who had no other general fertility problems, 75-80% of women who have had successful tubal ligation reversals became pregnant within a year after the procedure.
Where can I have a Tubal Ligation Reversal Procedure?
Many women who previously had their “tubes tied” have life events causing them to change their minds about adding to their family.
If you are considering reversing your tubal ligation to become pregnant, contact IBI Healthcare Institute. We offer tubal ligation reversal and a number of other women’s reproductive health services in three convenient locations.
