Sterilization: Frequency Asked Questions
Can I get pregnant if I've had endometrial ablation?
In short, yes.
While pregnancy’s not likely — and not recommended — after ablation, it can happen, so women who have had an endometrial ablation (a.k.a. uterine ablation) should use birth control until after menopause. While it may be possible to get pregnant after this procedure, pregnancy after endometrial ablation can be complicated, so you shouldn't get the procedure unless you're sure you don't want (more) kids. Sterilization may be a good option if you've had an endometrial ablation to make sure you never have to worry about an unplanned pregnancy.
How long will it take to heal after sterilization?
If you have a laparoscopy, you may be sore for a few days. The incisions are small, but you still may take a couple weeks to heal completely. If you have an Essure, you should feel back to normal in a day or 2 since there are no incisions (but don't forget, it does take the Essure 3 months to be effective so use a back-up method until). Essure will no longer be sold after the end of 2018. Find out more here.
What are the best methods that my partner won't notice?
Some methods are much easier to hide than others. The shot and the implant are invisible, so nobody will know you're using birth control. The IUD is also very discrete, so that’s another possibility, though some guys may be able to feel the strings during sex. And if you are looking for a permanent solution, sterilization surgery is also undetectable, but there may be age restrictions and waiting periods for this procedure.
Is there male birth control?
The only birth control options for guys that are currently available are condoms, sterilization, and the withdrawal method. There have been some promising leads for other options, but they’re still in development.
Is it normal to feel exhausted and sore several weeks after having the sterilization procedure?
It’s normal to be sore and tired for days or even weeks after the procedure. However, if you’re concerned, or if you don’t start to regain your strength soon, you should check in with your doctor just in case.
I'm having pregnancy symptoms—is it possible I could be pregnant even though I've been sterilized?
Sterilization is extremely effective and is intended to be permanent. Nevertheless, about 5 of every 1,000 women become pregnant within a year after the procedure and that small risk remains until menopause, so you should get a pregnancy test if you’re concerned.
Is it safe to use birth control right after giving birth?
Not every method of birth control is safe to use right after giving birth, but many of them are. Breastfeeding consistently can be its own form of birth control, or there are a bunch of other methods you can use, including super-effective methods like the IUD and the implant. If you feel like this will be your last bundle of joy, sterilization is also an option. (P.S. Sterilization could also be an option for your partner!)
Which sterilization procedure is right for me?
There are two types of permanent sterilization procedures for women: surgical and non-surgical. Within the surgical category, there are a few different options as well. Individual choice depends on preference and any medical conditions that may affect surgery risk. Talk with your health care provider to see which procedure is right for you.
My partner and I are sure we don't want to have [more] children, but I'm not thrilled by the prospect of surgery. What are our alternatives?
Sterilization for women is pretty safe so you shouldn’t worry too much about the surgery, but a vasectomy (male sterilization) is even lower risk, so you and your partner might want to look into that first.
What does it mean to get your tubes tied?
Surgical sterilization, also called tubal ligation or getting your tubes tied, is a surgical procedure where a doctor puts a clip, band, or ring on the fallopian tubes, or removes a section of the tubes. (In other words, it doesn't usually involve tying!) This type of procedure prevents eggs from being fertilized after they are released from the ovaries. Surgical sterilization is permanent and effective immediately.
