It was once believed that a woman who had a tubal ligation (commonly referred to as “getting your tubes tied”) was essentially “infertile” in the sense of being unable to conceive for the rest of her life. Now, though, doctors are often able to perform “reversals”, which is opening the door for women who have changed their minds about getting pregnant again.
In the United States, almost three-quarter of a million tubal ligations occur each year. And when left alone, they are approximately 99.5% effective as a method of birth control. In fact, about a third of married people using contraceptives choose tubal ligation as a means of ceasing to have any (or more) children.
However, as was mentioned before, years go by and partners’ desires as to how large of a family they want can change. In that case, it’s wise to look into either a tubal reversal, if possible, or in-vitro fertilization (IVF).
Surprised to hear that IVF would be used by someone who chose tubal ligation? It’s really not a huge surprise. IVF bypasses the risks associated with a tubal reversal (which is a surgical procedure) and also addresses additional fertility issues that may be of concern to the woman or her partner.
If you’ve had a tubal ligation and would like to have a child (or additional children), contact RSI, the Philadelphia area’s premiere fertility clinic, for a consultation.