Exploring Permanent Birth Control After Delivery

Understanding Postpartum Sterilization

Sterilization is a safe and effective form of birth control. However, it is permanent, meaning it cannot be undone.

If you choose this option, sterilization is done by removing both fallopian tubes (a procedure called a salpingectomy) after your child is born. Once removed, the tubes cannot be put back.

Benefits of Salpingectomy

Nearly 100 percent effective at preventing pregnancy
More effective than older methods (cutting, clipping, or banding the tubes)
May lower your risk of ovarian cancer later in life

Risks of Salpingectomy

Small risk of bleeding, infection, or surgical complications
Small risk that the surgery cannot be fully completed, meaning you would still need to use another form of birth control

Will This Change My Periods?

Removing the fallopian tubes does not affect your periods. However, if you stop using hormonal birth control after surgery, your periods may change as your body’s hormone levels adjust.

Can I Get Pregnant After My Tubes Are Removed?

Sterilization is not reversible.

If you decide later that you want to become pregnant, you would need in vitro fertilization (IVF), which costs around $10,000 and involves multiple medical procedures.

What Happens During Postpartum Sterilization Surgery?

If You Have a Vaginal Birth

The surgery can be done soon after delivery—sometimes the same day or within two days.
It takes place in the operating room (OR).
A small incision (about 1.5 to two inches) is made above or below your belly button.
Both fallopian tubes are removed.
The incision is closed with stitches that dissolve on their own.
The surgery usually takes about 30 minutes.

If You Have a C-Section

The fallopian tubes can be removed immediately after the baby is delivered.
No extra incision is needed.
This adds about 10 minutes to the surgery.

Possible Complications

In rare cases, the surgeon may not be able to safely remove both tubes. If that happens, part of the tubes may be removed, or the procedure may be stopped.

If your surgery cannot be completed, your provider will explain what happened and help you choose another birth control method.

Pain Control During and After Surgery

Most people getting a salpingectomy receive an epidural (spinal anesthesia). This is an injection in your lower back that numbs pain while you remain awake. You may feel pressure, or pulling, but should not feel pain.
In rare cases, general anesthesia is needed, which is when you are asleep with a breathing tube.
After surgery, you can take ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain.
If needed, your provider may prescribe a stronger medicine.

Planning for Postpartum Sterilization

Partners in Contraceptive Choice and Knowledge (PICCK) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that works to promote excellent, equitable contraceptive care by educating healthcare providers on the full range of options available to their patients. Read their guide to postpartum birth control options from temporary to permanent:

Download PICCK Postpartum Contraception (Birth Control) Guide (PDF)

If you are thinking about getting sterilized, talk with your provider early—ideally well before your due date. You may need to sign consent forms in advance, and your provider can help guide you through the process.