Studies show that 28% of American women regret their tubal ligations. While it may seem like a fantastic way to practice birth control on a long-term basis, there may come a time when you second-guess your decision.
In that case, you might be wondering about tubal ligation reversal.
Can you get your tubes untied though? And if yes, what does it entail? Keep reading to find out.
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Can You Get Your Tubes Untied?
Is it possible to get your tubes untied? Yes, it is!
The doctor can surgically reattach your fallopian tubes, which were previously “disconnected”. That way, mature eggs can travel down the tubes in the ovary, where they’re fertilized and grow into a baby.
The Tubal Reversal Process
During the tubal reversal surgery, your doctor will use a laparoscopic camera that goes in through your abdomen. The incision is small, so recovery won’t be bad.
Then, they’ll check that you have enough healthy tissue left for a reversal. If you do, then they’ll make more small incisions in your abdomen so the camera can go through to assist the surgery. You’ll go under general anesthesia and in about 2 to 3 hours, your reversal should be complete.
Sometimes, doctors will opt for a minilaparotomy instead. The doctor will also make incisions in your abdomen here, but instead of using a camera, they’ll pull the fallopian tube ends out of these incisions. They’ll then remove any damaged parts and reconnect your tubes outside of your body before putting them back in.
Healing will take a week for laparoscopic surgery and 2 weeks for minilaparotomies.
The Cost to Get Your Tubes Untied
The tubal ligation reversal cost isn’t cheap. Prices vary between $5,000 to $21,000, depending on where you’re located and which doctor you see. On average, costs land around $9,000.
Do note that most insurance policies don’t cover reversals either. So you’ll need to plan ahead financially. The good news is, many doctors have payment plans, so you won’t have to pay the entire price at once.
Success Rate of Getting Tubes Untied
Not every woman is a good candidate for a tubal ligation reversal. If you previously had no fertility problems, are younger than 40, and are in good health, then your chances are generally good.
The success rate will also depend on what type of tubal ligation you had and how much healthy tissue is left. Fimbriectomies are much tougher to reverse than all other types, so if you’ve had this done, then a reversal may not be possible.
Make an Appointment With Your Doctor
So can you get your tubes untied? Yes, you can, but the success rate might not be good in your case.
The best thing to do is to see your doctor and discuss your desires. Together, you can figure out the best way to expand your family.
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