QuestionI am writing from NJ. My mother had tubal ligation (cautery) and since then she has been rapidly losing weight. It has been two years and she still feels pain as well. Is this normal? If not, what could possibly have caused such a reaction to the surgery?
AnswerHello Lexi from the U.S.,
I don't think that this is a reaction to the surgery. Tubal ligations usually do not have any residuals, especially tubal cautery. The part of the tube that was cauterized disintegrates and so has no residual sensations. It is possible that scar tissue formed from the tubal ligation and is wrapped around the intestine or other structure and is causing the pain. That would not explain the weight loss, however. At this point, I would be worried about other conditions, so you mom needs to see a Gynecologist and undergo evaluation. With weight loss, cancer comes to mind, but that is not the only thing that can cause pain and weight loss. Intestinal problems can do that as well. Please have her see her Gynecologist as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Edward J. Ramirez, M.D., FACOG
Executive Medical Director
The Fertility and Gynecology Center
Monterey Bay IVF Program
www.montereybayivf.com
Monterey, California, U.S.A.
for additional information check out my blog at http://womenshealthandfertility.blogspot.com check me out on facebook and twitter with me at @montereybayivf
