Information on Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome

Tubal Sterilization Side Effects

© Erin Oxendine

Nov 10, 2009
Fallopian Tube, Euthman
Women every year decide to have their tubes tied as a means of birth control. Some women now think the tubal ligation may be the root of various medical problems.

Tubal ligation, or getting the "tubes tied," has been a long term option for women as a form of permanent birth control. Doctors often recommend it to their patients as a sterilization method. For numerous women, the procedure goes smoothly and there are no significant tubal ligation side effects. Other women, however, are not so lucky and feel Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome may be the reason they are experiencing certain medical symptoms.

What is a Tubal Ligation

When a woman has a tubal ligation, doctors perform this permanent surgical sterilization by closing off the fallopian tubes. The closure can be done several ways, including cauterization or burning the tubes, cutting them or blocking off the tubes with rings, clips or bands. A tubal ligation is usually completed on an outpatient basis unless performed in conjunction with childbirth.

Possible Risks of Having a Tubal Ligation

Many women have successful tubal ligations and never have any problems. Unfortunately, there are are risks that could occur during and after the procedure. Some obvious tubal ligation risks include:

  1. chance of becoming pregnant if the procedure is unsuccessful
  2. complications during surgery

Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome

Individuals who do have severe issues after having a tubal ligation believe it is caused by Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome. Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome is associated with a lack of blood flow to the fallopian tubes which may cause an interruption in progesterone levels. The syndrome has been debated in the medical community and some professionals argue it is just symptoms of related medical conditions. However, other doctors do recognize Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome and conclude there are tubal ligation side effects associated with the sterilization procedure.

Women who claim to have Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome indicate that their symptoms include:

  1. early menopausal symptoms
  2. hormonal imbalances
  3. loss of libido
  4. weight gain
  5. chronic fatigue
  6. pain in left or right side of abdomen
  7. irregular periods with heavy clotting
  8. depression and anxiety
  9. mood swings
  10. hair loss

Treatment for Complications from Tubal Ligation

There are treatment options for women who have complications after a tubal ligation. The most common solution is a tubal reversal. Tubal reversal surgery repairs the fallopian tubes, allowing them to function normally again. It is important to note a tubal reversal procedure may not always work, though it does have a high success rate. It is also a very expensive surgery to have and some women may have to finance the tubal reversal.

Other options for Post Tubal Ligation Sydrome include taking hormone medication and even birth control to balance out irregular periods, libido and mood swings. Women who suffer from severe depression and anxiety relating to permanent sterilization may also need to see a psychologist. Since some of these symptoms caused by tubal ligation are pre-menopausal symptoms, patients can try supplementing with soy and Vitamins B, C and E. Herbal supplements that also may be helpful are Black Cohosh and Primrose Oil. Before adding any supplements, even vitamins, it is best to consult with a doctor to make sure the supplements will not interefere with current medications.

Overall, women who have decided that they do not wish to have more kids usually seek out permanent birth control methods. The best thing to do is to research any sterilization method and discuss it with a gynecologist. It is also a good idea to ask other women who have had a tubal ligation what their experience was like and if they would recommend it.

Reference: National Library of Medicine and PubMed


The copyright of the article Information on Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome in Gynecological Health is owned by Erin Oxendine. Permission to republish Information on Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.


Fallopian Tube, Euthman
       


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