Sterilisation

Laparoscopic Sterilisation: A Permanent Contraceptive Choice

Choosing a permanent method of contraception is a significant life decision, made when you are certain that your family is complete or you do not wish to have children in the future. Laparoscopic sterilisation, also known as tubal ligation, is a highly effective and reliable surgical procedure that provides complete and permanent peace of mind.

At Happiher, we believe in supporting your personal reproductive choices with expert, confidential care. Dr. Manou Kaur performs sterilisation using a modern, minimally invasive laparoscopic (keyhole) approach, ensuring the procedure is as safe, simple, and comfortable as possible.

What is Laparoscopic Sterilisation?

Laparoscopic sterilisation is a procedure designed to permanently prevent pregnancy by blocking or sealing the fallopian tubes. These tubes are the pathway that an egg travels along to get from the ovary to the uterus. By blocking this path, the egg and sperm are prevented from ever meeting.

The procedure is performed via keyhole surgery:

• A few very small incisions are made in the abdomen.
• A laparoscope (a thin, lighted camera) is inserted to give a clear view of the pelvic organs.
• Specialized instruments are used to block the fallopian tubes, usually by applying titanium clips or rings, or by removing a small segment of the tube.

This procedure does not affect your hormones or your menstrual cycle. Your ovaries will continue to release an egg each month, but it will simply be naturally reabsorbed by your body. You will continue to have regular periods until you reach menopause naturally.

Is Sterilisation the Right Choice for You?

This is a deeply personal decision. Sterilisation is an excellent option for women who are:

• Confident that they do not want to have any more children.
• Seeking a permanent, hormone-free alternative to other contraceptive methods.
• In a stable relationship where both partners have agreed on permanent contraception.

It is crucial to understand that this procedure is considered permanent and is not reliably reversible. While reversal surgery (tubal reanastomosis) is sometimes possible, it is a complex procedure and is not always successful. Therefore, you must be completely certain in your decision before proceeding.

The Procedure: A Simple and Minimally Invasive Approach

We are committed to making your experience as straightforward and comfortable as possible.

1. The Consultation: Your journey starts with a thorough and open consultation. This is a critical step to ensure you have considered all other long-acting reversible contraceptive methods (like the coil or implant) and are fully informed about the permanent nature of sterilisation. This is a time for you to ask any and all questions without judgment.
2. The Day of Your Surgery: Laparoscopic sterilisation is performed as a day-case procedure under general anaesthesia. The surgery itself is typically very quick, often taking only 20-30 minutes.
3. Recovery: You will be able to return home the same day. It is common to experience some mild bloating or discomfort for a few days. Most women are able to return to work and light activities within a week. We advise avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for about two weeks.

Key Benefits of Laparoscopic Sterilisation

• Highly Effective: It is one of the most reliable methods of contraception, with a success rate of over 99%.
• Permanent Peace of Mind: Once completed, you no longer have to think about contraception.
• Hormone-Free: It does not interfere with your natural hormonal cycle.
• Minimally Invasive: The keyhole approach ensures a quick recovery with minimal scarring.
• May Reduce Ovarian Cancer Risk: There is strong evidence that removing the fallopian tubes (a method often used during sterilisation) can significantly reduce the lifetime risk of developing certain types of ovarian cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How soon after the procedure is it effective?
   The contraception is effective immediately. However, we advise waiting about a week before resuming sexual intercourse to allow for comfortable healing.
2. Will it affect my sex drive or periods?
   No. The procedure has no effect on your hormones, so it will not impact your libido, your periods, or when you start menopause.
3. What are the risks of the procedure?
   Laparoscopic sterilisation is a very common and safe procedure. As with any surgery, there are small risks, including infection, bleeding, or damage to nearby organs, all of which are rare. Dr. Kaur will discuss these with you in detail.
4. What if I change my mind?
   This is the most important consideration. You must view this procedure as irreversible. While reversal surgery exists, it is not guaranteed to restore fertility. You must be 100% certain in your decision.

Take Control of Your Contraceptive Future

When you are ready for a permanent contraceptive solution, we are here to provide expert care that respects your decision.