Tubal ligation is the most common form of female sterilization. While tubal ligation must be considered permanent birth control, the choice of product used during the procedure can effect the likelihood of achieving pregnancy if a reversal is performed in the future.
Tubal Ring
A tubal ring is a small elastic band stretched around a cone-shaped applicator that is usually placed during outpatient laparoscopic surgery. During the tubal ligation procedure, a small segment of the fallopian tube is drawn up into the applicator. The ring is then released from the applicator, constricting the fallopian tube and depriving it of its normal blood supply. The area under the ring scars, and the healthy portions of the fallopian tube separate into two parts. A tubal ring is effective immediately, although you may not feel like having sexual activity for several days following the procedure. Varieties of tubal rings include the Yoon ring, Falope ring and Lay loop.
Tubal Clip
A tubal clip is a small, hinged spring clip that is usually placed during outpatient laparoscopic surgery. During the tubal ligation procedure, the clip is fastened around the fallopian tube at the narrow isthmus near the uterus. The clip is closed tightly, constricting the fallopian tube and depriving it of its normal blood supply. As with the tubal ring, the area under the tubal clip scars, and the healthy portions of the fallopian tube separate into two parts. A tubal clip is effective immediately. Varieties of tubal clips include the Hulka Clip and Filshie Clip.
Essure
Essure is a micro-insert that can be placed in the fallopian tubes during an outpatient visit to your gynecologist. Rather than severing the fallopian tube, the Essure micro-insert works by creating painless scarring that blocks the fallopian tube. Three months after insertion, you will undergo a hysterosalpingogram to confirm blockage of the fallopian tubes; until that confirmation, you must use an alternate form of birth control.
Adiana
Adiana also causes painless scarring in the fallopian tubes to achieve sterilization. It can be inserted into the fallopian tubes during an outpatient visit to your gynecologist. Adiana is a polymer micro-insert; the insert is placed after low-level radiofrequency energy is used to remove a thin layer of cells inside the fallopian tube. Three months after insertion, you will undergo a hysterosalpingogram to confirm blockage of the fallopian tubes; until that confirmation, you must use an alternate form of birth control.
