Tubal Ligation

Tubal ligation (also known as permanent contraception or sterilization), is a surgical procedure that permanently prevents you from getting pregnant. It’s also known as “getting your tubes tied.”
It’s a safe procedure with a low rate of side effects.
Tubal ligation doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs/STDs), including HIV.

Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure, where a doctor permanently closes, or removes, your fallopian tubes.
When the fallopian tubes are blocked or removed, sperm can’t meet up with an egg to cause pregnancy.

Because of the Affordable Care Act, Kaiser Permanente members can get certain types of birth control methods at low or no cost. Check with Member Services or your provider for details.

Tubal ligation is a one-time procedure that is considered permanent.
It’s usually done through small incisions in the belly. You’ll need either epidural, spinal, or general anesthesia, and it may require a hospital stay. Most of the time it can be done as a day surgery and you can go home the same day, but in some cases it may require a hospital stay.
Recovery can take about a week, and you won’t be able to have sex for up to 2 weeks.
Tubal ligation doesn’t remove or change your ovaries or uterus. This means it will not cause menopause and you’ll still get your period.
You should only get tubal ligation if you’re positive you don’t ever want to get pregnant in the future.

A decreased risk of developing ovarian cancer has been shown with tubal ligation, and even more so with tubal removal surgeries.

Tubal ligation doesn’t protect against sexually-transmitted infections (STIs/STDs), including HIV. You should still use condoms to protect yourself.

It’s a permanent procedure, so you can’t change your mind after it’s done.
All surgical procedures have some risks. It’s best to talk to your doctor about these risks and what to expect during and after surgery.