Tubal Ligation Reversal and Repairs
Dr Ying Li provides expert advice and surgical management for the reversal of tubal ligation and treatment for tubal factor infertility.
The fallopian tubes in the female body are essential for natural conception. These two tubes reach from each ovary to the womb, gathering the egg released each month, providing a place for the sperm to meet and fertilise the egg, and guiding the egg into the womb. Damage or dysfunction of the fallopian tubes account for around a third of fertility problems in women, known as tubal factor infertility. Conversely, surgically cutting and sealing the fallopian tubes (tubal ligation) is commonly performed as an effective form of permanent contraception.
Tubal ligation reversal
Although tubal ligation is intended as a permanent sterilisation procedure for women, sometimes things change. Perhaps you want to have children with a new partner, your priorities in life have shifted, or you have just simply changed your mind.
A tubal ligation reversal is a surgical procedure to restore the function of your fallopian tubes with the intention of enabling natural conception. However, as many different factors contribute to fertility and conception, a successful reversal is still not a promise of pregnancy. The operation involves removing any clips or rings used to block the fallopian tubes during the original ligation procedure, and rejoining any disconnected sections with surgical stitches. Some forms of tubal ligation cannot be reversed, such as if a very large segment of your fallopian tubes was removed or if the ligation was performed with the EssureⓇ contraceptive device (no longer available in Australia).
Ying performs tubal ligation reversal as a laparoscopic (keyhole) procedure or as a microsurgical procedure, which uses an operating microscope. Both of these surgical techniques will minimise tissue damage and shorten recovery time. The operation is done with general anaesthesia and typically takes around 1-2 hours.
Tubal repairs and reconstruction
If your fallopian tubes have been damaged or blocked from injury, previous pelvic surgery and subsequent scarring, infection, or a condition such as endometriosis , you may require a tubal repair or reconstruction to increase your chances of conceiving naturally.
The specific technique used depends on your situation and condition of your fallopian tubes, but all approaches are based on restoring function by removing damaged or blocked sections of the tube, joining together the healthy ends, or reconstructing damaged fimbriae (the fringed end of the fallopian tubes closest to the ovary). In most situations, Ying favours either a laparoscopic or microsurgical approach to reduce the risk of complications and improve your recovery time.
Common questions about tubal procedures
What are the success rates for tubal ligation reversal?
The chances of successfully reversing a tubal ligation procedure depends on how the original surgery was performed. For example, clips and rings are more straightforward to remove, while a ligation procedure that involved removing a large section of fallopian tube may not be able to be reversed. Remember that even if the tubal ligation reversal is successful, it still doesn’t necessarily mean you will be able to conceive naturally.
What conditions can be fixed with tubal repairs or reconstruction?
The most common cause of tubal factor infertility is a sexually transmitted infection (chlamydia or gonorrhoea), causing inflammation of the fallopian tubes. If this is not treated, it may result in scarring and blockage, which would require surgery. Tubal repair or reconstruction may also be needed to address scarring and/or obstructions from endometriosis, previous pelvic surgery, pelvic inflammatory disease, polyps, adhesions around the fallopian tubes, or a congenital abnormality of the tubes.
Is tubal ligation reversal painful?
The tubal ligation reversal procedure itself is not painful as you’ll be under general anaesthesia. After your operation, the incision sites (wounds in your abdomen) will be sensitive and sore as they heal, but this pain is usually well-managed with painkillers. Performing the procedure laparoscopically helps to minimise this post-op discomfort and shorten your overall recovery time.
How soon can I fall pregnant after a tubal ligation reversal?
The recommendation is to wait for at least two menstrual cycles before you start trying to conceive. This gives your body time to heal and settle in preparation for conception and pregnancy. It can take a couple of years to fall pregnant after a tubal ligation reversal, but it is also important to note that statistics show only about 50% of women are able to conceive naturally after having the procedure.
Tubal procedures with Dr Ying Li
Ying is a Sydney fertility specialist with years of experience in managing both male and female infertility, including with the use of advanced surgical techniques. He understands the road to motherhood can be difficult for many women, and is dedicated to using his skill in gynaecology and reproductive medicine to make the path as smooth as possible.
Consulting Rooms
Level 3, 321 Kent St
Sydney NSW 2000
137 St Johns Rd,
Glebe, NSW 2037
50-52 Gloucester Rd,
Hurstville NSW 2220
Phone and Fax
T: 1300 323 297
F: 02 8212 8944