An Overview on Essure as Female Sterilization
Another female sterilization procedure available in the Plano, Frisco and Dallas, Texas area that works to block the passing of sperm through the fallopian tubes is a technique known as Essure. This is a non-operative method that does not require an incision. During this short, in-office procedure performed at Women’s Specialists of Plano, a small, soft insert is slid through the natural pathways of the vagina and cervix and into the fallopian tubes. This flexible, silicone-free device is left in place and over a period of time (usually about 3 months), the body works with the Essure inserts to form a natural barrier within each fallopian tube. These barriers prevent sperm from reaching the eggs so that pregnancy cannot occur.
It is important to understand that during this wait-period, a woman should use a back-up method of birth control. At the end of three months, a special dye will be inserted into the fallopian tube to make sure the barrier has been formed and that the liquid cannot pass through. This will confirm that the fallopian tubes are completely blocked and the inserts are in place.
Women throughout the United States undergo female sterilization procedures each and every day to avoid pregnancy. Sterilization is safe and lasts for life. They do not change or affect a woman’s hormones and most women will continue to have normal periods, go through a normal menopause, and enjoy sexual relations without the worry of becoming pregnant.
If you are researching permanent birth control for women and female sterilization, it is suggested that you do proper research and reflection to be sure that you will not regret the decision in the future. If you are sure about your decision to receive permanent birth control (female sterilization), please discuss all of your alternatives and options with your doctor so that the two of you can discuss which procedure will be most fitting to your life.
Is Tubal Ligation Reversible?
The tubal ligation procedure is reversible, and has been 75-80% successful in women who were deemed candidates for reversal surgery. However, many women are not considered candidates due to various health issues, and thus sterilization is considered a permanent form of contraception.
Hysteroscopic Sterilization: Another Option
In hysteroscopic sterilization, a small telescopic device called a hysteroscope is inserted through the vagina and into the uterus, in order to place a small device at the openings to the fallopian tubes, thus blocking them. This form of sterilization does not involve any anesthesia or incisions, and patients can return to their normal activities the following day. After three months, x-ray images called hysterosalpingograms are used to check the position of the devices to ensure they are blocking the fallopian tubes. For those three months, patients are advised to use alternate forms of contraceptives to prevent pregnancy, until success of the procedure has been established.
For more information about the family planning services offered by Women’s Specialists of Plano, or to learn more about the Essure procedure as a form of female sterilization and permanent birth control for women, please contact our Plano, Frisco and Dallas, Texas area office today.