Laparoscopic Sterilisation
This webpage will give you information about a laparoscopic sterilisation. If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant health professional.
What is a laparoscopic sterilisation?
A laparoscopic sterilisation is a method of female contraception which is permanent. It involves blocking both fallopian tubes to prevent you from becoming pregnant.
What are the benefits of surgery?
You will no longer need to use another form of contraception.
Are there any alternatives to sterilisation?
A coil, hormone implants or, for men, a vasectomy are common methods of contraception, which have a similarly low failure rate.
What does the operation involve?
The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic and usually takes about twenty minutes.
Your gynaecologist will make several small cuts on your abdomen (see figure 1).
They will place surgical instruments, along with a telescope, inside your abdomen and perform the operation.
The most common method of sterilisation is to block each fallopian tube by putting a clip on it.
What complications can happen?
1 General complications
- Pain
- Feeling or being sick
- Bleeding
- Infection of the surgical site (wound)
- Unsightly scarring
- Blood clots
2 Specific complication
- Damage to internal organs
- Making a hole in the womb or cervix
- Surgical emphysema
- Failed procedure
- Infection of the gynaecological organs or bladder
- Ectopic pregnancy
How soon will I recover?
You should be able to go home the same day.
You should rest for the first day or two.
Summary
A laparoscopic sterilisation is a method of female contraception which is permanent.
Acknowledgements
Author: Mr Andrew Woods MBBS MRCOG FRANZCOG
Illustrations: Medical Illustration Copyright © 2011 Nucleus Medical Art. All rights reserved. www.nucleusinc.com
This document is intended for information purposes only and should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.
