Understanding the Risks of Tubectomy Reversal

A tubal ligation is a common form of birth control. This involves cutting or blocking the fallopian tubes so that the sperm cannot fertilise the egg. However, later, some women choose to reverse this procedure. This is known as a tubectomy reversal. This procedure involves rejoining the two parts of the fallopian tubes. However, not all kinds of tubal ligation can be reversed.

Who can Undergo a Tubectomy Reversal?

To be eligible for a tubectomy reversal some of the factors that will be considered include:

• The patient's age
• The patient's body mass index
• Type of tubal ligation performed earlier
• The extent of damage to the fallopian tubes
• Egg and sperm quality

This surgery is usually performed only if there is a large portion of the fallopian tubes that is healthy and undamaged. The types of tubal ligation that can be reversed include:

• Ligation performed with rings or clips
• Ligation performed by electro-cauterization

Tubal ligation techniques such as Adiana or Essure systems are not reversible.

Risks of Tubectomy Reversal

A tubectomy reversal can help a fertile woman become pregnant without any further medical intervention. However, like any other procedure, there are certain risks involved. These include:

• Inability to Get Pregnant - Conception is not guaranteed after this procedure. The chances of getting pregnant depend on a number of other factors as well such as the woman's age and quality of eggs.
• Scarring of the Fallopian Tubes - The surgery may cause scar tissue to build up around the fallopian tubes which may, in turn, interfere with fertility.
• Ectopic Pregnancy - Under normal circumstances, the sperm fertilises an egg in the fallopian tube and the fertilised embryo then travels to the uterus where it is implanted. However, one of the risks of tubectomy reversal is that the fertilised embryo may be implanted in the fallopian tubes itself. The embryo will not get the nutrition it requires in this case and the pregnancy will not be successful. In addition, ectopic pregnancy can be fatal to the mother.
• Infection - There is a risk of infection to the fallopian tubes and at the site of the incision.
• Bleeding and injury to other pelvic organs
• Allergic reaction to anaesthesia

Alternatives to Tubectomy Reversal

If you do not want to undergo a reversal of the tubal ligation, you may choose to conceive through IVF. This process bypasses the role of the fallopian tubes by harvesting the eggs directly from the ovaries and transferring a fertilised embryo to the uterus.