When it comes to birth control methods, surgical methods They are an option for those who want a permanent, long-term solution. These medical procedures aim to effectively interrupt reproductive capacity. The best-known surgical methods are… tubal ligation in women and the vasectomy in men. Both procedures are considered permanent forms of contraception.
What are surgical contraceptive methods?
The surgical contraceptive methods Suppressions are a form of birth control that involves a medical procedure to block or cut the fallopian tubes or ducts that carry eggs or sperm. The goal is to permanently prevent fertilization and, therefore, pregnancy. It is important to note that these methods are generally irreversible, so it is crucial that people who choose these procedures are certain they do not want more children in the future.
Tubal ligation in women
El bilateral tubal blockage, better known as tubal ligationTubal ligation is a surgical procedure for women who no longer wish to have children. The procedure involves cutting, tying, or cauterizing the fallopian tubes. This prevents sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg. It is usually performed via a laparotomy. laparoscopyTubal ligation is a procedure performed under general anesthesia in which small incisions are made to insert a camera and the necessary surgical instruments. This procedure takes between 15 and 30 minutes, and after a short stay in the hospital, the patient can return home. The full recovery period is approximately 5 to 7 days. Tubal ligation is a highly effective method, with a success rate close to 10%. 99%.However, it is not a reversible method. Although there are cases where reversal can be attempted through complex surgery, the chances of success are low. It is crucial to clarify that this method does not protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), so the use of condoms will continue to be necessary if we want to avoid this type of disease.
Vasectomy in men
La vasectomy is the surgical method used in men who want a permanent contraceptive method. It consists of blocking the vas deferensThis prevents sperm from being expelled with semen during ejaculation. This procedure can be performed under local anesthesia and is less invasive than tubal ligation. The procedure takes about 15 minutes and does not require hospitalization. A small incision is made in the scrotum to cut and seal the vas deferens. After a vasectomy, it is advisable to continue using another form of temporary contraception for the first 20 sexual encounters or up to three months after the procedure, as there may still be active sperm in the vas deferens. A semen analysis will confirm the absence of sperm in the seminal fluid. Like tubal ligation, vasectomy is effective in approximately 99%. of cases, but it also does not protect against ITSIn some cases and under certain conditions, it is possible to reverse a vasectomy using an intervention called recanalization, although this is not always effective as it depends on the time elapsed between the operation and the attempted reversal.
Essure: An additional method for women
essure It was an alternative method of sterilization for women that involved inserting a small coil into the fallopian tubes via hysteroscopy. This procedure did not require incisions, as the device was positioned using a camera through the vagina and cervix. Although the method was less invasive, it generated controversy due to side effects experienced by some patients, and its use has been discontinued in many countries. However, those who underwent this procedure should remain under medical supervision if they experience any discomfort.
Which method to choose?
Choosing a surgical contraceptive method depends on several factors, such as the number of children you have or whether you want more in the future. It’s also essential to consider potential side effects, effectiveness, and risks. Before making a decision, It is always advisable to consult a specialist doctor. who can advise on which procedure is most suitable for each person’s circumstances. Both methods, while effective at preventing pregnancy, have limitations in terms of reversibility and do not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Therefore, in some cases, additional methods must be used for comprehensive protection. These surgical contraceptive methods offer a permanent and effective solution for people who no longer wish to have children. It is important to make the decision carefully and consult with specialists to evaluate all available options.