QuestionI had a tubal ligation in 2002, the Dr cut and burned the tubes, she said it could not be reversed. I am now 31 and had a change of heart. Could this process be reversed or am I unable to have another child?
AnswerDear Wilmarie,
Several factors play a key role in the success rate of tubal ligation reversal. These include:
-the type of tubal ligation procedure originally performed
-the age of the woman at the time she seeks tubal ligation reversal (women over 40 should discuss their personal chances of achieving success with their doctor before choosing tubal ligation reversal)
-the amount of damage caused by the original tubal ligation procedure directly correlates to the possible success of the tubal reversal procedure.
Women who make the best candidates for tubal ligation reversal are those whose tubal ligations included either the removal of a small section of the fallopian tubes, or those whose tubal ligation was achieved by clips or rings placed around the tubes to prevent eggs released during ovulation from traveling through the Fallopian tubes.
Overall, success rates for tubal ligation reversal can vary from 20% to 70%. With your particular type of ligation procedure, I would guess that the success rate would be on the lower end, not to mention costly.
You should check with your doctor about your chances of success with an attempted reversal, however the low success rate for reversal is very much why doctors make it very clear to women that tubal ligations are considered permanent procedures.
I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.
Brenda
