Sterilization is  a permanent method of birth control. Postpartum sterilization is sterilization performed after the birth of a baby. After childbirth , the fallopian tubes and the enlarged uterus are located just under the abdominal wall below the navel. This procedure ideally is done before the uterus returns to its original location. This is usually a few hours or days following delivery. If you had a cesarean delivery, it is done right after the baby is born.

How is postpartum sterilization performed ?

For women who had vaginal delivery, an incision is made in the abdomen. This procedure is called minilaparotomy. For women who had  cesarean delivery, the procedure is done  through the  same abdominal incision that was a made for the baby. The fallopian tubes are brought through the incision . The tubes are cut and  closed with a special thread or removed completely.  The incision below the navel is closed with stitches  and a bandage.

The type of anesthesia used for the delivery  can be used for this procedure. The types of anesthesia used include

• regional anesthesia
• general anesthesia
• local anesthesia

The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes.  When done  soon after childbirth, it may not make  your hospital stay any longer.

What are the risks associated with postpartum sterilization ?

The procedure is usually safe. It has a low risk of death and complications. The most common complications are those related with general anesthesia. Other risks include bleeding and infections.

Are there any side effects associated with postpartum sterilization ?

Side effects may vary and depends on the type of anesthesia used  and the way the surgery was performed . You may have some pain in your abdomen and feel tired as well. Other side effects you may encounter but not as common include :

• dizziness
• nausea
• abdominal cramps
• shoulder pains
• feeling bloated
• sore throat ( this is from the breathing tube of the general anesthesia )

When should this procedure be avoided ?

You should avoid making this choice during stress such as when you’re  going through a divorce. Studies indicate that women younger than 30 are likely to regret making  this decision than older women. You may also want to think about postponing the procedure if there are serious risks or complications with the baby.

What if i decide to get pregnant after sterilization ?

If you chose to get pregnant, attempts to reverse the procedure may not work. Most women who try to conceive after tubal sterilization is reversed do not succeed. It also increases your risk of problems such as ectopic pregnancy .

Are there any alternative to postpartum sterilization ?

There are long lasting reversible  contraceptions such as intrauterine device that last for several days. They are about as good as preventing pregnancy as postpartum sterilization. They can be removed anytime you want to get pregnant.