Tubal Ligation Risks

Potential risks of tubal ligation can range from nausea and vomiting to paralysis or even loss of life. Minor risks, such as bruising, are usually temporary. Depending on the individual situation, a major complication may lead to a longer stay, a blood transfusion, or a repeat surgery. Also, tubal ligation risks are increased in patients with health problems such as diabetes.

Tubal Ligation After Pregnancy

Risks With Tubal Ligation: An Overview

No surgery is completely free of risks. However, tubal ligation has been done for many years with good results and few complications or problems.

We will now talk about some of the minor and major postpartum tubal ligation risks. This article does not cover the risks of anesthesia. Your anesthesia care team can talk with you about these specific risks.

(Click Tubal Ligation Complications for information on laparoscopic tubal ligation risks.)

Minor Tubal Ligation Risks

Minor risks with tubal ligation can include:

Minor infections
Minor bleeding
Bruising or a collection of blood at the incision site
Abnormal or painful scar formation
Allergic skin reaction to tape, dressings, or latex
Delayed return of bowel and/or bladder function.

In most cases, if one of these minor problems does occur, it is temporary, and your healthcare provider can take care of it easily.

(Tubal Ligation Risks Continued: Page 2)