Female Sterilization as a Permanent Contraceptive Method
Written on June 30, 2009 by steven
Sterilization has become the leading method of contraception for women(10.7 million women), closely followed by the oral contraceptive pill(10.4 million women). Since the 1970s, perfection of sterilization procedures has made this method popular. Although some of the newer surgical techniques make reversal of sterilization theoretically possible, anyone considering sterilization should assume that the operation is not reversible. Before becoming sterilized, people would think through such possibilities as divorce and remarriage or a future improvement in their financial status that may make them want a larger family.
- Female Sterilization One method of sterilization in females is called tubal ligation. It is achieved through a surgical procedure that involves tying the fallopian tubes closed or cutting them and cauterizing(burning) the edges to seal the tubes so that access by sperm to released eggs is blocked. The operation is usually done in a hospital on an outpatient basis. First, the abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide gas through a small incision in the navel. The surgeon then inserts a laparoscope into another incision just above the pubic bone. This specially designed instrument has a fiber-optic light source that enables the physician to see the fallopian tubes clearly. Once located, the tubes are cut and tied or cauterized.
Ovarian and uterine functions are not affected by a tubal ligation. The woman’s menstrual cycle continues, and released eggs simply disintegrate and are absorbed by the lymphatic system. As soon as her incision is healed, the woman may resume sexual intercourse with no fear of pregnancy.
As with any kind of surgery, there are risks. Some patients are given general anesthesia, which presents a small risk; others receive local anesthesia. The procedure itself usually takes less than an hour, and the patient is generally allowed to return home within a short time after waking up. Women considering a tubal ligation should thoroughly discuss all the risks with their physician before the operation.
The hysterectomy, or removal of the uterus, is a method of sterilization requiring major surgery. It is usually done only when the patient has a disease of or damage to the uterus.
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