When it comes to birth control methods, surgical methods are an option for those who want a permanent, long-term solution. These medical procedures seek to effectively interrupt reproductive capacity.
The most well-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?
On surgical contraceptive methods They are a form of birth control that involves a medical intervention to block or cut the tubes that carry eggs or sperm. The purpose 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 opt for these interventions are sure that they do not want more offspring in the future.
Tubal ligation in women
El bilateral tubal blockage, better known as tubal ligation, is a surgical procedure for women who no longer wish to have children. The procedure involves cutting, tying or burning the fallopian tubes. This prevents sperm from reaching the egg to fertilize it.
It is usually done by means of the laparoscopy, a procedure under general anesthesia in which small incisions are made to insert a camera and the necessary surgical instruments. This procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and after a short hospital stay, the patient can return home. The complete recovery period is approximately 5 to 7 days.
Tubal ligation is a highly effective method, with a success rate close to 100%. 99%However, it is not reversible. Although there are cases in which it can be reversed by means of a complicated surgery, the chances of success are low.
It is essential 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 deferens, thus preventing sperm from being expelled along with the 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.
Once a vasectomy has been performed, it is advisable to continue using some other temporary contraceptive method for the first 20 sexual relations or for up to three months after the procedure, as there may still be active sperm in the ducts. A spermiogram test 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 in women that involved inserting a small spring into the fallopian tubes through hysteroscopy. This procedure did not require incisions, since the device was placed through the vagina and cervix using a camera.
Although the method was less invasive, it generated controversy due to side effects in some patients, and its use has been discontinued in many countries. However, those who underwent the procedure should remain under medical supervision if they experience discomfort.
Which method to choose?
Choosing a surgical method of contraception depends on several factors, such as the number of children you have or whether you want to have more in the future. It is also essential to consider possible side effects, effectiveness and risks.
Before making the decision, It is always advisable to consult a specialist doctor. who can advise on which of the procedures is most appropriate according to each person's circumstances.
Both methods, despite being effective in preventing pregnancy, have limitations in terms of their 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 to people who no longer wish to have children. It is important to make the decision with caution and consult specialists to assess all available options.