Can You Turn Back After Tubal Ligation?
Tubal ligation is a common form of sterilization for women. This surgical procedure ties, cuts, or blocks the fallopian tubes. As a result, a woman cannot get pregnant as the blockage prevents sperm from reaching and fertilizing a released egg. Sometimes, some women want to undo this process, which is possible with tubal ligation reversal. The objective is to achieve pregnancy by allowing eggs to travel through the fallopian tubes again. Tubal ligation reversal success rates vary based on multiple factors. In some cases, women will need to consider assisted reproductive technology (ART) to further assist in the goal of pregnancy.
Reasons for tubal ligation reversal
Women who choose tubal ligation are usually confident there is no possibility of having future children. Yet, about 1-3% will consider and pursue sterilization reversal. There may be a change of heart due to a new relationship or financial situation. Some women may have a new perspective on life or about children and want the possibility to conceive again. The loss of a child may spur couples to try again. A doctor can help women or couples discuss the possibility and success rate of attempting tubal ligation reversal.
What to expect during surgery
Tubal ligation uses a minimally invasive procedure called laparoscopy to access the fallopian tubes via a small incision near the abdomen. The tubes are then ligated and sealed off accordingly. Tubal ligation reversal is more complex. Using the same laparoscopy procedure, multiple small incisions are made in the pelvic region. The doctor will remove any clips or rings used to block the fallopian tubes. If the tubes are seared, the doctor will reattach the ends with stitches, which is a delicate process. After surgery, a special die is passed through the uterus and fallopian tubes, which is monitored via X-ray. If no dye leaks out, the reversal is considered a success.
Is this a foolproof way to pregnancy?
Women who attempt tubal ligation reversal can get pregnant. Statistics reveal pregnancy rates vary from 57% to 84%. Women conceive after 1-2 years, on average. These figures depend on age, type of tubal ligation performed, and general health. The time that has elapsed since the original procedure also matters. To achieve pregnancy naturally, there should be no additional infertility issues like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or hormone imbalances. There are also potential risks, such as the possibility of ectopic pregnancy. The medical team will discuss the objectives, risks, and expectations.
It’s time to consider ART
There are cases where women may need to consider additional support, like ART, to achieve pregnancy. For instance, some tubal ligations cannot be reversed. Recurrent miscarriages are possible due to ectopic pregnancies caused by previous fallopian tube damage. Advanced age also plays a role, and there are cases of unexplained infertility. Sometimes, the reversal surgery is only partially successful. For instance, only 1 fallopian tube is functioning, or there is scarring. Some couples desire quicker results and consider ART. In vitro fertilization (IVF), considered the gold standard of ART, can help in these cases.
IVF after tubal ligation reversal
IVF creates multiple viable embryos without the use of the fallopian tubes. Women will be required to take injectable hormones over a short period to develop multiple mature eggs. By harvesting multiple eggs, a fertility clinic can create embryos with a sperm sample from a partner or donor. A single embryo transfer (SET) is then performed to achieve pregnancy. Multiple IVF cycles may be required, but the procedure has similar success rates to couples who did not undergo tubal ligation. Success rates depend on age, endometrial receptivity, and the reproductive health of the partner.
Unwrap the possibilities of pregnancy
Tubal ligation reversal is a decision that requires careful consideration. If the goal is to achieve pregnancy, this option restores the natural ability to conceive. The success rate depends on the extent of damage to the fallopian tubes, the time elapsed since the procedure, age, and general health. If pregnancy is a challenge even after tubal reversal, consider ART techniques like IVF. Consult with a fertility team who may suggest additional testing or a combination of treatments, including IVF.
