When considering the pros and cons of having a tubal ligation during a C-section, or Caesarean section, it is difficult to come up with a single argument against it. It is an ideal time to have this procedure done. The women’s abdomen is already open for the birth of the baby, so it is not necessary to make any additional incisions. The uterus is high in the abdomen right after delivery, making it easy for the doctor to reach the fallopian tubes. There is no need to have carbon dioxide pumped into the abdomen to raise the fallopian tubes, as is necessary when a tubal ligation is performed on its own.
A C-section is the delivery method used in nearly one-fourth of all births in the United States. A C-section is usually performed by an obstetrician or gynecologist, just as a tubal ligation would be. As with all surgery, there are certain risks involved. The most common problems are infection in the uterus or nearby organs and excessive bleeding from the two incisions that are created.
The mother’s pain during a C-section is usually controlled by a regional anesthetic, such as an epidural. This allows the mother to be awake during the birth of her baby. The doctor will make an incision — usually a horizontal incision right above the pubic bone — to open the abdomen. A second incision is made to open the uterus.
After the uterus is opened, the amniotic sac is opened and the baby is removed. If a tubal ligation during a C-section is planned, it is done right after the birth of the baby. The most common form of anesthesia for a tubal ligation is an epidural, which has already being administered for the delivery. The abdomen is also already open, just as it would be for a tubal ligation.
The fallopian tubes are readily exposed after delivery, making conditions right for a tubal ligation during a C-section. During a tubal ligation, the fallopian tubes are cut or blocked to prevent the male sperm from entering and fertilizing an egg. The whole procedure takes about 10 minutes. Having a tubal ligation during a C-section is two procedures with the risks of only a single surgery.
A tubal ligation is a popular form of birth control among married women who want no more children, although it is forbidden in some Muslim nations. It is considered to be one of the most reliable methods of contraception. It is also one of the most permanent. A woman should be very sure she wants no more children, because this surgery can only be reversed in rare cases.