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Expert Q&A
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| By Michael D Benson, MD Attending Physician, Highland Park Hospital, IL | ||
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I had a tubal ligation 4-1/2 yrs ago. I am 31 years old and in good health. I am getting remarried and would like to have it reversed. I would like to know what the procedure involves, what are my chances of becoming pregnant again, and how long do I have to wait before I can try to get pregnant? I had three full term, vaginal births prior. Thank you! - Marsha, Sydney"
ubal ligation reversals are somewhat less successful than vasectomy reversals. The success rate is also somewhat dependent on the method of tubal ligation. The commonly cited success rates are 50% or greater. In some cases, in vitro fertilization will be offered as an alternative.
The reversal surgery typically involves the use of a significant abdominal incision and an operating microscope. At least in the United States, insurance does not usually cover such procedures. The surgery typically involves an overnight stay in the hospital and several weeks of recovery time. Typically, you would only have to wait a month or two after the procedure to try to conceive. The doctor advising you on this would definitely need a copy of the surgical report describing the tubal ligation."
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