It’s not uncommon for women to get their fallopian tubes blocked or cut if they do not want children or more children. Often referred to as “having your tubes tied,” some women opt for tubal reversal to restore their fertility. If you are considering this procedure, learn more about it here. 

FREQUENTLY-ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT TUBAL REVERSAL

What does the procedure involve?

To start the procedure, the surgeon places you under general anesthesia and uses small tubes with tiny cameras attached to make abdominal incisions. These tubes and cameras are known as laparoscopic or robotic surgical equipment, with the largest abdominal slits no more than ½ inch long. 

Next, the surgeon removes damaged fallopian tube tissue and any foreign objects used to keep them tied, such as rings or clamps. They also use an operating microscope to reattach the ends of the tubes to the ovaries using sutures. Once the tubes are attached, the surgeon injects dye into them. If they are fully reattached, the dye does not leak. 

Are there risks? 

Tubal reversal risks are rare, but can include anesthesia complications, site bleeding, scarring, and infection, and injuries to adjacent organs. The ectopic pregnancy risk increases, or when the fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus, usually within a fallopian tube. Ectopic pregnancies are medical emergencies due to the risk of life-threatening bleeding. However, the chances of such pregnancies increase from 1 in 100 to 5 in 100 chances following a reversal procedure. 

What does recovery entail? 

You remain in the hospital for about three hours after your surgery to ensure there are no complications, after which it takes up to two weeks to recover. Wait 48 hours to bathe, and do not rub your incision to avoid irritation and infection. Gently pat it instead. Rest as much as possible during the recovery period, which includes refraining from lifting heavy objects that put pressure on the pelvic region. Avoid sexual activities as well, and take OTC medication for pain. 

How long after the procedure can I try to get pregnant? 

It is possible to become pregnant after tubal reversal in light of different factors, including the amount of healthy fallopian tissue available, sperm quality, and the type of procedure you had previously. For example, if your tubes were clamped instead of burned for sealing purposes, the chances of a successful pregnancy are higher because of less scar tissue. The quality of your eggs plays a role as well, as egg quantity and quality naturally diminish with age. It is still possible for women in their late 30s and 40s to conceive, however. 
 

If tubal reversal could be right for you, discuss your needs at Advanced OB-GYN Services. Featuring locations in Bridgeton and St. Peters, MO, this OB-GYN center is led by Dr. Joseph Hazan, a board-certified gynecologist with over 30 years of experience. Call (636) 928-1800 (St. Peters office) or (314) 291-2140 (Bridgeton office) today to make an appointment, or learn more about services online.