Female sterilisation involves blocking or cutting the Fallopian tubes (where eggs travel from the ovaries to the uterus) to prevent the ova (eggs) from coming in contact with sperm. After sterilisation, an ovum (egg) is still released each month but is absorbed by the body.
Laparoscopic sterilisation
This is a common method of female sterilisation and is usually done under general anaesthetic. Two or three very small cuts are made in the abdomen. The abdomen is filled with a carbon dioxide gas, which allows the organs inside to be seen clearly. A laparoscope (medical telescope) is inserted through one small opening to locate the Fallopian tubes. The tubes are then blocked by heat sealing, clips, clamps or rings.
Mini-laparotomy
The mini-laparotomy, also performed with a general anaesthetic, involves a small cut in the lower abdomen, giving access to the Fallopian tubes. Heat sealing, clips, clamps or rings are used to block the tubes.
How effective is female sterilisation?
These methods of female sterilisation are 99.5% effective as a form of contraception, starting immediately after the operation. This means that, on average, of 1000 women who have been sterilised, 2-5 of them may become pregnant at some time in the future.
What are the advantages of female sterilisation?
- A highly effective method of contraception
- Effective immediately
- Does not interfere with sexual function
- Long-term complications are rare
What are the disadvantages of female sterilisation?
Usually requires a general anaesthetic
- The general risks for a surgical procedure are bleeding and infection; specific for this procedure would be damage to other structures inside the abdomen.
- Periods may become heavier if the woman has previously been on the COCP
- If pregnancy does occur there is an increased risk of this being an ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy in the Fallopian tube)