Tubal Ligation Reversal
What is a Tubal Ligation Reversal?
Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure where the fallopian tubes are blocked or cut to prevent pregnancy. Many women choose to have their tubes tied because they do not want to get pregnant again in the future. However sometimes a woman’s circumstances change and she may later want to become pregnant. In such cases, a woman who has had a tubal ligation may need a reversal procedure. This surgery aims to reconnect the previously blocked or cut sections of the fallopian tubes.
If successful, the reversal procedure can allow the egg to travel through the unblocked fallopian tube, and the sperm to reach the egg, potentially resulting in fertilization and pregnancy.
Who is a Good Candidate for the Procedure?
Ideal candidates for tubal ligation reversal are women between 20 and 45 years old, in good health, with a reversible type of ligation, and a strong desire for pregnancy. Supportive partners and realistic expectations are also important.
How does Tubal Reversal Surgery Work?
After the patient is under general anesthesia (asleep), the surgeon performs the reversal surgery.
The procedure takes between 2 and 3 hours to complete.
Often, the surgeon will use a small camera (laparoscopy) to check the current condition of the fallopian tubes and see if it is possible to reconnect them.
Typically, the surgeon makes a tiny incision in the navel to insert the camera.
If everything looks good, the surgeon will make a small bikini-cut incision just above the pubic hairline.
Then the surgeon will reconnect the fallopian tubes using very fine stitches through the small incision.
Patients usually do not need to stay in the hospital after the surgery.
The surgeon will discharge the patient with instructions for care and pain medication to recover at home.
Patients can return to their regular activities after 2 weeks.
Can You Reverse All Tubal Ligations?
It is not possible to undo all tubal ligations. In some situations, the method used to block the fallopian tubes causes too much damage making a reversal impossible. Surgeons have a better chance of performing reversals if the initial surgery used clips or rings to close off the fallopian tubes or if only a small portion of the fallopian tubes was removed. Selecting an experienced and skilled doctor for the tubal ligation reversal procedure will be crucial for a successful outcome.
What is the Success Rate of Tubal Ligation Reversal?
The success rate of tubal ligation reversal typically ranges from 45% to 85%, depending on various factors, including:
- Surgeon’s expertise: A skilled microsurgeon increases the likelihood of a successful procedure.
- Patient’s age and health: Younger, healthier individuals generally have higher success rates.
- Tubal ligation method: Some techniques are easier to reverse than others.
- Fallopian tube condition: The health of the remaining tube sections is crucial.
- Tube length: At least 3 inches of functional fallopian tube is ideal for better outcomes.
A fertility specialist can assess individual chances of success based on these factors.
How much does Tubal Ligation Reversal Surgery Cost?
Many things affect the cost of a tubal ligation reversal procedure. The location where the surgery is done and the type of reversal performed can make the cost different. You may also need to have some tests done before the surgery which will add to the cost. The cost of a tubal ligation reversal can range from $5,000 to $21,000.
However the average cost in the United States is around $8,685. Health insurance plans usually do not cover the cost of reversing a tubal ligation. However, IBI Healthcare Institute offers financing plans to help patients pay for the procedure. During the first consultation, the doctor will discuss the cost and any specific details related to your situation.
If you want to learn more about tubal ligation reversal, you can call us or book an appointment online.