With a fellowship in advanced laparoscopic and reproductive surgery, I am experienced in microsurgery for tubal repairs, reconstruction, and tubal ligation reversal. Whether you know or suspect that you have tubal damage, or just need expert advice regarding management of subfertility, I will provide the knowledge to support you to make the right decisions about your own health.
The fallopian tubes are part of a woman’s reproductive system. These ducts carry your eggs from your ovary to your uterus, providing a site for sperm to fertilise the egg. Problems with the fallopian tubes can interfere with fertility, a situation known as tubal factor infertility.
Causes of tubal factor infertility include:
Problems with your fallopian tubes can be diagnosed during my routine fertility testing at your initial appointment. This allows me to personalise my approach to finding the best solution for you.
Tubal reconstruction and repairs restore the function of your fallopian tubes. I usually perform these as laparoscopic procedures, as this offers all the benefits of minimally-invasive surgery – less pain, less scarring, shorter recovery, and fewer complications.
A tubal reconstruction or repair may involve:
The associated risks and chances of success will be specific to your body, the condition of the tubes, and the procedure required. I will discuss everything you need to know at your initial consultation so that you can make an informed decision about your own treatment.
Women who have completed their family may consider a permanent form of female contraception known as tubal ligation, often referred to as “having your tubes tied”. This procedure prevents sperm from reaching the egg. The predominant benefit of tubal ligation over other forms of contraception is that it’s a once-off event that provides extremely effective birth control long-term. You no longer have to remember to take a daily pill, and there are no hormonal side effects to contend with.
Tubal ligation isn’t for everyone. As your fertility specialist, I am committed to helping you to find the right contraceptive solution for your goals, personal preferences, and lifestyle.
This minimally-invasive laparoscopic procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. Small “keyhole” incisions are made in your abdomen to provide access for the laparoscope, a long, thin camera, and the tools used to perform the ligation.
There are several different types of tubal ligation:
After your tubal ligation you can go home on the same day. Recovery is quick, and most people are back to normal activities in 1-2 weeks.
Though tubal ligation is one of the most effective forms of contraception, it is not quite 100% effective. On rare occasions (less than 1% of cases) a woman may still fall pregnant after having had a tubal ligation.
Other risks and complications include:
Despite tubal ligation being designed as a permanent form of contraception, it is possible in many cases to reverse and restore your ability to conceive. Not all cases of tubal ligation can be effectively reversed; this will depend on the method used to perform the initial operation and the current condition of your fallopian tubes.
Tubal ligation reversal is performed laparoscopically with small, “keyhole” incisions. Any clips or stitches are removed, the damaged portions of the tube are removed, and the healthy ends are reconnected.
Similar to the tubal ligation procedure, the reversal operation is done under general anaesthesia. Its minimally-invasive nature means you benefit from a faster recovery with less pain, less bleeding, and lower risk of complications.
It’s important to remember that a successful reversal of tubal ligation doesn’t guarantee the ability to conceive or have a successful pregnancy. Conception and pregnancy are affected by many factors, including those associated with the partner providing the sperm. Roughly 50% of women successfully conceive after a tubal ligation reversal.
It is normal to take many months to conceive naturally after having had a tubal ligation reversal. If there are other factors interfering with pregnancy, I will investigate and address these as needed. For instances where the tubal ligation reversal procedure hasn’t enabled you to conceive naturally, you still have options for growing your family, including IVF and other assisted reproductive techniques.
Whether you’re considering tubal ligation for contraception, a tubal ligation reversal, or need expert advice in overcoming tubal factor infertility, I can help. My approach is always practical, evidence-based, and compassionate, because I know the information out there can be overwhelming and often confusing. Plus, my advanced training in laparoscopic and reproductive surgery means you’re in good hands.
