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Permanent contraception

Permanent contraception, also known as tubal ligation, is one of the safest and most effective permanent contraception methods available to women. It is a surgical procedure where the fallopian tubes are blocked, cut, or sealed, preventing the eggs from reaching the uterus and being fertilized.

In AEGER Prima Clinic, in Lisbon, tubal ligation is performed by specialized gynecologists, with personalized follow-up in all stages, from the evaluation consultation to complete recovery, ensuring safety, comfort, and an informed decision.

What is tubal ligation and when is it indicated? 

Tubal ligation is indicated for women who have made a conscious and definitive decision not to have children (or more children). It is considered a permanent form of contraception, so it is essential that the decision is thoughtful, free from external pressures, and duly clarified in a medical consultation.
It is especially suitable for women who:

  • ✔
    Have completed their family project and do not intend to have more children
  • ✔
    Have medical contraindications for other contraceptive methods
  • ✔
    Seek a definitive solution that eliminates the need for daily, monthly, or temporary contraceptive methods
  • ✔
    Want an alternative to their partner's vasectomy

Although there are reversal techniques (salpingostomy), the results are not guaranteed and depend on several factors. Tubal ligation should always be considered a permanent decision.

How is the procedure performed at AEGER Prima Clinic?

The procedure is performed in a hospital or clinical setting, under general or local anesthesia, depending on the medical evaluation and the patient's preference. The usual duration is 30 to 60 minutes.

The most commonly used techniques include cutting, ligation, cauterization, or applying clips/rings to the fallopian tubes, thus preventing the passage of eggs. The access is usually done by laparoscopy, a minimally invasive technique that uses small incisions and a camera to visualize the interior of the abdominal cavity, significantly reducing recovery time.

After the procedure, the patient is accompanied by the clinical team until they are in a position to return home, usually on the same day or the next day.

Before surgery, an evaluation consultation is performed where the gynecologist analyzes the patient's medical history, previous exams, and clarifies all doubts, defining the most appropriate plan for each situation.

What are the benefits of tubal ligation?

Permanent and highly effective contraception

Eliminates the need for temporary contraceptive methods, providing long-term peace of mind.

Minimally invasive procedure

Modern laparoscopy techniques guarantee small incisions, less discomfort, and faster recovery.

No hormonal impact

Unlike the pill or other hormonal methods, tubal ligation does not alter the woman's hormonal balance. Menstruation remains normal.

Economical solution in the long term

A single procedure eliminates the ongoing costs associated with other contraceptive methods.

Improvement in quality of life

Allows the woman to focus on her personal and family life without worrying about contraception.

What is evaluated in the tubal ligation consultation?

01. Reproductive history and family decision

The gynecologist discusses the patient's family project to confirm that the decision to use permanent contraception is conscious, informed, and definitive, without external pressures.

02. Evaluation of overall health status

The complete medical history is analyzed, with special attention to conditions that may affect the safety of the procedure, such as cardiovascular diseases, coagulation problems, or previous abdominal surgeries.

03. Choice of surgical approach

The doctor explains the different methods available for tubal ligation (cutting, cauterization, clips, rings) and determines the most appropriate option based on the patient's anatomy and preferences.

04. Clarification on permanence and alternatives

The permanent nature of the procedure and existing alternatives are discussed for those who still have doubts about long-term family planning, ensuring that the decision is made with complete clarity.

Frequently asked questions

Tubal Ligation in Lisbon

Is tubal ligation painful?

The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so there is no pain during surgery. After the anesthesia wears off, it is normal to feel some mild abdominal discomfort and fatigue in the first few days, easily controlled with painkillers prescribed by the doctor.

How long does recovery take?

Most women resume their daily activities within 2 to 5 days. Intensive physical activity should be avoided for 1 to 2 weeks. The gynecologist will provide specific instructions adapted to each case.

Is tubal ligation immediately effective?

Yes. Unlike other methods, tubal ligation is effective immediately after the procedure, without the need for a waiting period or subsequent laboratory confirmation.

Does tubal ligation affect menstrual cycles or menopause?

No. Tubal ligation does not interfere with hormonal production, so menstruation remains normal, and menopause occurs at the usual age. Some women may experience minor changes in their menstrual cycle, which should be discussed with the gynecologist.

Can tubal ligation be reversed?

There are surgical reversal techniques, but the results are not guaranteed and depend on multiple factors, including the technique used in the original ligation and the time elapsed. Tubal ligation should always be considered a permanent decision.

Do I need to be hospitalized to undergo this procedure?

In most cases, the procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, and the patient returns home on the same day or the next day. The need for hospitalization is evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the gynecologist.

What is evaluated during the tubal ligation consultation

01.

Reproductive history:

The doctor will discuss the patient's family planning decisions to ensure they are safe regarding permanent contraception.

02.

Health assessment:

Carefully analyzes the patient's overall health, focusing on conditions that may affect the safety of the procedure.

03.

Surgical approach:

The doctor will explain the different methods of tubal ligation and determine the most suitable option based on the patient's anatomy and preferences.

04.

Future considerations:

Patients will be advised on the permanence of the procedure and alternatives if there is any uncertainty about long-term family planning.

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