What is tubal ligation. How does the sterilization procedure work. Is tubal ligation reversible. What are the benefits and risks of female sterilization. How effective is tubal ligation in preventing pregnancy. Who is an ideal candidate for tubal ligation. What are the alternatives to tubal sterilization.

Understanding Tubal Ligation: The Basics of Female Sterilization

Tubal ligation, commonly known as “getting your tubes tied,” is a surgical procedure that provides permanent contraception for women. This form of female sterilization involves blocking or cutting the fallopian tubes to prevent eggs from traveling from the ovaries to the uterus, thereby making fertilization impossible.

Female sterilization is a highly effective method of birth control, with a success rate of over 99%. It’s important to note that while tubal ligation prevents pregnancy, it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Therefore, using barrier methods like condoms is still recommended for those at risk of STIs.

How does tubal ligation work?

During the tubal ligation procedure, a surgeon makes small incisions in the abdomen to access the fallopian tubes. The tubes are then cut, sealed, or blocked using various methods such as clips, rings, or cauterization. In some cases, a section of the tubes may be removed entirely. This prevents sperm from reaching the egg, thus eliminating the possibility of fertilization and pregnancy.

Types of Tubal Sterilization Procedures

There are several approaches to female sterilization, each with its own advantages and considerations:

• Traditional Tubal Ligation: The fallopian tubes are cut, sealed, or blocked.
• Bilateral Salpingectomy: Complete removal of both fallopian tubes.
• Laparoscopic Tubal Ligation: A minimally invasive procedure using small incisions and a camera.
• Postpartum Tubal Ligation: Performed immediately after childbirth.

The choice of procedure depends on factors such as the woman’s medical history, preferences, and timing of the sterilization.

Is the Essure system still available?

The Essure system, which involved placing small coils in the fallopian tubes to induce scarring and blockage, is no longer available in the United States. It was discontinued in 2018 due to safety concerns and patient complaints.

The Tubal Ligation Procedure: What to Expect

Understanding the process of tubal ligation can help alleviate anxiety and prepare you for the procedure:

1. Anesthesia: You’ll be put under general anesthesia, ensuring you’re asleep and pain-free during the surgery.
2. Abdominal Access: The surgeon inflates your abdomen with gas to improve visibility of the organs.
3. Incisions: Small cuts are made near the navel and lower abdomen.
4. Visualization: A laparoscope (tiny camera) is inserted to locate the fallopian tubes.
5. Tube Occlusion: The fallopian tubes are sealed using the chosen method.
6. Closure: The incisions are closed with stitches or surgical tape.

The entire procedure typically takes 30 minutes to an hour. Most women can go home the same day and resume normal activities within a few days to a week.

Effectiveness and Permanence of Tubal Ligation

Tubal ligation is one of the most effective forms of contraception available. But just how reliable is it?

How effective is tubal ligation in preventing pregnancy?

Tubal ligation is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. This means that fewer than 1 in 100 women will become pregnant in the year following the procedure. Over time, the cumulative risk of pregnancy increases slightly, but it remains very low.

It’s crucial to understand that while highly effective, no method of contraception is 100% foolproof. In rare cases, the fallopian tubes may reconnect naturally, a phenomenon known as recanalization, which can lead to pregnancy.

Is tubal ligation reversible?

Tubal ligation is considered a permanent form of contraception. While reversal procedures exist, they are complex, expensive, and not always successful. The success rate of reversal depends on factors such as the type of sterilization performed, the amount of fallopian tube remaining, and the woman’s age.

Given its permanence, tubal ligation should only be considered by women who are certain they do not want to become pregnant in the future. It’s not recommended as a temporary form of birth control.

Benefits and Risks of Tubal Ligation

Like any medical procedure, tubal ligation comes with both advantages and potential risks. Understanding these can help women make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

What are the benefits of tubal ligation?

• Highly effective contraception
• Permanent solution for women who have completed their families
• No need for ongoing contraceptive management
• May reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, especially when the fallopian tubes are completely removed
• No impact on hormonal balance or menstrual cycles
• Allows for spontaneity in sexual relationships without fear of pregnancy

What are the potential risks and side effects?

• Surgical risks such as infection, bleeding, or adverse reaction to anesthesia
• Potential for injury to nearby organs during the procedure
• Small risk of failure and subsequent pregnancy
• Increased risk of ectopic pregnancy if conception does occur
• Possible regret, especially in younger women or if life circumstances change
• No protection against sexually transmitted infections

It’s important to discuss these risks and benefits thoroughly with a healthcare provider before deciding on tubal ligation.

Candidacy for Tubal Ligation: Who Should Consider It?

Tubal ligation is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. While it can be an excellent choice for many women, it’s not suitable for everyone.

Who is an ideal candidate for tubal ligation?

Ideal candidates for tubal ligation typically include:

• Women who are certain they don’t want any (more) children
• Those who have completed their desired family size
• Women over 30 who have given careful thought to their decision
• Individuals who cannot use other forms of birth control due to medical reasons
• Women at high risk for pregnancy-related complications who wish to avoid future pregnancies

Who should reconsider tubal ligation?

Tubal ligation may not be the best choice for:

• Young women who may change their minds about having children in the future
• Those experiencing relationship problems or going through major life changes
• Women feeling pressured by partners or family members
• Individuals with certain medical conditions that make surgery risky
• Those seeking a solution to temporary problems (e.g., financial stress, short-term illness)

A thorough consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to determine if tubal ligation is the right choice for an individual’s unique circumstances.

Alternatives to Tubal Ligation: Exploring Other Options

While tubal ligation is an excellent option for many women, it’s not the only choice for long-term or permanent contraception. Understanding the alternatives can help in making an informed decision.

What are some alternatives to tubal ligation?

• Vasectomy: A simpler, less invasive procedure for male partners
• Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): Long-acting, reversible contraception lasting 3-10 years
• Hormonal Implants: Provide contraception for up to 3 years
• Birth Control Pills, Patches, or Rings: Hormonal options that require regular use
• Barrier Methods: Condoms, diaphragms, or cervical caps used during intercourse
• Natural Family Planning: Tracking fertility cycles to avoid pregnancy

Each method has its own set of pros and cons, including effectiveness rates, side effects, and convenience factors. Discussing these options with a healthcare provider can help determine the best choice for individual needs and preferences.

Recovery and Long-Term Considerations After Tubal Ligation

Understanding the recovery process and long-term effects of tubal ligation is crucial for women considering this procedure.

What does recovery from tubal ligation entail?

Recovery from tubal ligation is generally quick, but it does require some care:

• Most women can return home the same day as the procedure
• Rest is recommended for the first 24-48 hours
• Light activities can usually be resumed within a few days
• Full recovery typically occurs within 1-2 weeks
• Some discomfort, bloating, and shoulder pain (from the gas used during surgery) may occur
• Sexual intercourse can often be resumed after a week, or as advised by the doctor

Are there any long-term effects of tubal ligation?

Tubal ligation generally does not have significant long-term effects on a woman’s health or hormonal balance. However, some considerations include:

• No change in menstrual cycles or hormone levels
• Possible reduction in risk of ovarian cancer, especially with complete tube removal
• No impact on sexual desire or function
• Potential for regret, particularly in younger women
• Slight increase in risk of ectopic pregnancy if pregnancy does occur

It’s important to note that tubal ligation does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, so continued use of barrier methods may be necessary for those at risk.

Making the Decision: Factors to Consider Before Choosing Tubal Ligation

Deciding on tubal ligation is a significant life choice that requires careful consideration. Here are some key factors to weigh:

What should I consider before opting for tubal ligation?

• Future Family Plans: Are you absolutely certain you don’t want more children?
• Relationship Status: Is your decision independent of your current relationship?
• Age: Younger women are more likely to experience regret
• Health Factors: Are there any medical conditions that might affect the procedure?
• Alternative Methods: Have you explored other long-term contraceptive options?
• Partner’s Input: Have you discussed this decision with your partner?
• Emotional Readiness: Are you prepared for the permanence of this decision?
• Financial Considerations: Is the procedure covered by your insurance?

It’s crucial to have open and honest discussions with your healthcare provider and loved ones before making this decision. Many doctors recommend a waiting period between the initial consultation and the procedure to ensure you’re comfortable with your choice.

Remember, while tubal ligation is highly effective and can provide peace of mind for those who are certain about their reproductive choices, it’s not the right option for everyone. Take the time to carefully consider all aspects of this decision to ensure it aligns with your long-term life goals and values.

Tubal Ligation Procedure | Female Sterilization

In This Section

• Sterilization

• How effective is sterilization?

• How safe is sterilization?

• What can I expect if I get a sterilization procedure?

• How do I get a sterilization?

• What are the benefits of sterilization?

• What are the disadvantages of sterilization?

What is sterilization?

Want to make sure pregnancy is not in your future? Sterilization (sometimes called female sterilization, tubal ligation, or “getting your tubes tied”) is a safe and effective surgical procedure that permanently prevents pregnancy.

What are the types of sterilization?

There are a few different types of tubal sterilization procedures: 

• Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure that permanently closes, cuts, or removes pieces of your fallopian tubes.

• Bilateral salpingectomy is a surgical procedure that removes your fallopian tubes entirely.

• Essure sterilization is a tiny coil that a doctor puts in your fallopian tubes to block them — it used to be a common form of sterilization, but Essure is no longer available in the U.S.

How does sterilization work?

Every month, an egg leaves one of your ovaries (called ovulation). The egg moves through one of your fallopian tubes for a few days, waiting for sperm to fertilize it. Pregnancy happens if a sperm cell meets up with one of your eggs, and the fertilized egg implants in your uterus. When your fallopian tubes are blocked or removed after a sterilization procedure, sperm can’t get to an egg and cause pregnancy.

During a sterilization procedure, you’re put to sleep so you won’t feel or remember anything. The doctor pumps gas into your belly so they can see your organs clearly. They make a small cut under your belly button and put a tiny camera inside your belly to find your fallopian tubes. Then they put a tool in through another small cut in your lower belly to close off your fallopian tubes. They’ll use heat, clips, or rings to seal your tubes shut, or remove your tubes altogether.

You still get your period after sterilization — you just can’t get pregnant because sperm can’t get to your eggs.

Is sterilization right for me?

Sterilization is permanent — you should only get sterilized if you’re totally sure you don’t want to be able to get pregnant for the rest of your life.

Sterilization may not be a good choice for you if:

• There’s any chance you’ll want to get pregnant in the future.

• You’re being pressured by your partner, friends, or family.

• You hope sterilization will solve problems that may be temporary — like marriage or sexual issues, short-term mental or physical illnesses, or money problems.

It’s safe for most people to get sterilized. Your doctor will talk with you about your health and life to help you decide if sterilization is right for you.

Does sterilization protect against STDs?

Nope. Sterilization won’t protect you or your partners from sexually transmitted infections. Use condoms to help lower your chances of getting or spreading STDs.

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Sterilization

• 99% effective

• Costs up to $6,000, but can be $0

• Surgical procedure

• Do it once, lasts forever

Sterilization doesn’t protect you from STDs. Use a condom to help stop STDs.

See All Methods

Back to top

Abstinence

Breastfeeding

Cervical Cap

Condom

Diaphragm

FAM

Female Condom

Implant

IUD

The Patch

The Pill

The Ring

The Shot

Spermicide

Sponge

Sterilization

Vasectomy

Withdrawal

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How do I get a tubal ligation procedure?

In This Section

• Sterilization

• How effective is sterilization?

• How safe is sterilization?

• What can I expect if I get a sterilization procedure?

• How do I get a sterilization?

• What are the benefits of sterilization?

• What are the disadvantages of sterilization?

Many hospitals, private doctors, clinics, and Planned Parenthood health centers do tubal ligation. You may be able to get sterilized for free or at a low cost.

How much does tubal ligation cost?

Tubal ligation can cost between $0 to $6,000, including follow-up visits.

The cost of a tubal ligation varies and depends on where you get it, what kind you get, and whether or not you have health insurance that will cover some or all of the cost. Tubal ligation may be totally free (or low cost) with some health insurance plans, Medicaid, and other government programs.

Even if tubal ligation costs more than other methods up front, it usually ends up saving you money in the long run because it lasts forever. Vasectomies (aka male sterilization) are usually a lot cheaper than female sterilization.

If you’re worried about cost, check with your local Planned Parenthood health center to find out if they can hook you up with birth control that fits your budget.

Can I get free tubal ligation?

There’s a good chance you can get a tubal ligation for free (or at a reduced price) if you have health insurance. Because of the Affordable Care Act (aka Obamacare), most insurance plans must cover all methods of birth control with no cost to you, including some female sterilization procedures. Learn more about health insurance and birth control.

If you don’t have health insurance, you’ve still got options. Depending on your income and legal status in the U.S., you may be able to enroll in Medicaid or other state programs that can help you pay for birth control and other health care.

Planned Parenthood works to provide you with the services you need, whether or not you have insurance. Most Planned Parenthood health centers accept Medicaid and health insurance, and many charge less for services depending on your income. Contact your local Planned Parenthood health center for more information.

Where can I get a tubal ligation?

You can get a tubal ligation at a doctor’s office, hospital, or health clinic. Many Planned Parenthood health centers also do some types of sterilization procedures. If your local Planned Parenthood doesn’t do tubal ligation, they may be able to refer you to other health care providers in your area who do.

Some choose to get sterilized right after giving birth or having an abortion. Talk with your doctor ahead of time if you want to combine sterilization with another procedure.

Depending on where you live, there may be age restrictions or waiting periods to get a tubal ligation. You can ask about these when you call to make an appointment.

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Are you human? (Sorry, we have to ask!)

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Sterilization

• 99% effective

• Costs up to $6,000, but can be $0

• Surgical procedure

• Do it once, lasts forever

Sterilization doesn’t protect you from STDs. Use a condom to help stop STDs.

See All Methods

Back to top

Abstinence

Breastfeeding

Cervical Cap

Condom

Diaphragm

FAM

Female Condom

Implant

IUD

The Patch

The Pill

The Ring

The Shot

Spermicide

Sponge

Sterilization

Vasectomy

Withdrawal

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Abortion

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Birth Control

COVID-19 Vaccine

HIV Services

Men’s Health Care

Mental Health

Morning-After Pill (Emergency Contraception)

Pregnancy Testing & Services

Primary Care

STD Testing, Treatment & Vaccines

Transgender Hormone Therapy

Women’s Health Care

Filter By
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Telehealth
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Spaying a cat | Articles

If you decide to have a cat not as a breeding animal, but as a pet, and do not plan to breed, then sooner or later you will face the question of control over reproduction. Usually, when talking about preventing unwanted pregnancy in cats, the term “neutering” is used, in contrast to the term “castration”, which is used in relation to cats.

In fact, this well-established generalized concept of “sterilization” is not entirely correct and includes both sterilization itself – ligation of the fallopian tubes (oviducts), and castration – complete removal of the ovaries or uterus and ovaries together.

Is it necessary to sterilize a cat, and is there an alternative?

The cat goes into heat several times a year, the cat demands a cat, screams loudly, becomes either overly affectionate or (less often) aggressive.

Estrus in cats of different breeds occurs at different times depending on the speed of their puberty, for example, in Siamese and Oriental cats it may appear at 5 months, and in Persians after 10 months

Usually, seasonality of estrus is observed due to the length of daylight hours the hormonal background is activated when the day length is more than 12 hours, in our latitudes this is usually spring-summer-autumn. In the spring-summer period, estrus can follow a series of short breaks, in autumn the intervals between cycles become longer. But this is only a general rule, a lot depends on the personality of the cat – it can be more or less active.

At the peak of estrus (hunting period) the cat screams and rolls on the floor. Instinct pushes her to make every possible effort to meet the cat, as a result of which she can run away from the house, fall out of the window, start marking the territory.

Dangerous period of estrus lasts 10-14 days, and in order to avoid troubles, during this period it must not be left unattended, so after a while even the most persistent owners begin to think about how to solve this issue.

Contrary to popular belief, from the point of view of physiology, a cat does not need kittens, and there is no need for the first birth, on the contrary, it is more correct to sterilize the cat if possible before the first estrus – while the risk of complications is minimal.

Methods for preventing unwanted pregnancy

There are several ways to prevent unwanted pregnancy in cats, both surgical and non-surgical.

Non-surgical methods include the use of hormonal contraceptives, which is very popular among cat owners. With obvious simplicity, this method, unfortunately, is very imperfect – the use of pills like “Contrasex”, hormonal injections, termination of pregnancy using prostaglandins is not the best option. Modern research confirms that the risks of using these methods greatly outweigh the benefits – the side effects of these drugs cause significant harm to the cat’s health.

Surgical methods include:

• ligation of the fallopian tubes, or oviducts (tubal occlusion) – in fact, there is true sterilization, while the hormonal background and sexual behavior of the cat do not change, accordingly, all signs of estrus remain, the cat will continue to strive for a meeting with a cat, but pregnancy can no longer occur. Now this operation is resorted to extremely rarely, since it does not make sense – the problem with the sexual behavior of the cat is not solved, but on the contrary – due to the fact that fertilization does not occur, the cat’s estrus can become longer, and the interval between them can also be reduced . In addition, the risk of diseases of the genital area and tumors of the mammary glands increases. Very often, such cats undergo ovariohysterectomy in the future for medical reasons.
• removal of the ovaries (ovariectomy) – “switching off” the function of the ovaries by surgery. At the same time, the hormonal background changes accordingly, estrus stops and the cat’s behavior changes for the better. This operation is recommended for young healthy cats before the onset of sexual behavior.
• removal of the uterus and ovaries (ovariohysterectomy) is the most commonly used method. After ovariohysterectomy, estrus disappears in cats, problems associated with the implementation of sexual instincts are eliminated, in addition, possible health problems are prevented – ovarian cysts, false pregnancies, inflammatory diseases of the uterus, and the risk of mammary gland tumors is also significantly reduced. This operation is especially recommended for cats who have given birth, cats that have used hormonal contraceptive methods, and very often it is performed for medical reasons, for example, with a common purulent inflammation of the uterus (pyometra).

Spaying of a puerperal cat

Sometimes it is necessary to spay a puerperal cat that has been bred out of breeding, this is a common practice in breeding catteries. The cat is sterilized and transferred to new owners, where she is able to live a very long and happy life.

Quite often, sterilization is also carried out for medical reasons – when cats develop various diseases of the genital area, which are not uncommon for non-sterilized cats.

Sterilization has a positive effect on the psycho-emotional sphere of the animal – the cat stops worrying, experiencing stress from the inability to fully satisfy its instincts, does not torment itself and others with screams, does not mark territory, often becomes more affectionate and attached to its owners, while its hunting instincts are fully preserved.

According to statistics, spayed animals live longer!

What is the best age to spay a cat?

In principle, it is possible to sterilize a cat at any age, depending on the state of her health, but the most common practice is scheduled sterilization of cats at the age of 7-8 months, and preferably before the first manifestations of sexual behavior.

There is also early sterilization of cats at the age of 1.5-2 months, which is common among professional breeders, which allows the sale of already sterilized animals that are not subject to breeding for various reasons, and saves new owners from further troubles in this area. However, according to some studies, sterilization at an early age is undesirable and even dangerous, so the attitude towards this method is very ambiguous. This method has enough both supporters and opponents.

How dangerous is this operation?

Sterilization belongs to the category of abdominal operations, so it should be carried out in the clinic, and not at home, since the risk of complications is minimized.

The operation takes about 40 minutes and the animal does not experience any pain due to anesthesia.

There are several methods for performing such operations, which one will be applied, the doctor decides in each case.

A minimally invasive laparoscopic method, when organs are removed using a laparoscope through two small, 2-5 mm, incisions, although it has a number of advantages, it is rarely used in our country, since it is technologically complex, requires expensive equipment and, what is more importantly, the appropriate qualifications of the staff. In addition, this is the most expensive operation.

In classical sterilization methods, organs are removed through a small incision in the abdomen, which is closed with stitches and heals within 7-12 days.

Quite often the question arises, is it possible to sterilize a cat during estrus or pregnancy? Such operations are possible and acceptable, but undesirable, since the likelihood of complications is higher. It is best to plan the operation 2 weeks before or after estrus.

Preparation for surgery

A young healthy cat usually does not require any special preparation for surgery. Ideally, a cat should be vaccinated no later than a month before spaying. 12 hours before the operation, the cat is not fed, and 1-2 hours before the operation, water can also be removed. This is due to the possible vomiting when giving anesthesia, so that the food masses do not enter the respiratory tract of the animal.

The preparation of a cat with health problems, as well as an elderly cat, requires the obligatory consultation of a doctor who can recommend diagnostic blood tests, as well as a consultation with a veterinary cardiologist.

What are the possible complications and problems?

This operation is common and the risks involved are very low.

Perhaps the only, but, fortunately, very rare problem may be intolerance to anesthesia. This reaction is individual, it is almost impossible to predict it, but in the conditions of the clinic, even such complications are most often overcome.

It is a common misconception that neutering makes cats fat, but this is not true. Spaying surgery on cats does not in itself cause obesity. The causes of obesity are overfeeding and physical inactivity. It must be remembered that a sterilized cat generally needs fewer calories, and, based on this, select an appropriate diet for her.

What kind of care does a cat need after surgery?

The cat does not require complex care after sterilization.

During the first day after the operation, the cat must be given rest, provide her with a cozy bed on the floor, as the cat may fall from the sofa, armchair or other elevation due to temporarily impaired coordination of movements after anesthesia

To prevent contamination and licking by the cat of the operating room wounds, it is recommended to put on the animal a postoperative bandage – a horseshoe. Usually the cat quickly gets used to the blanket and already on the second day and ceases to pay attention to it.

The condition of the skin suture should be monitored. It must be dry and clean. In some cases, when prescribed by a doctor, the suture is treated with antiseptic solutions and wound healing ointments.

Stitches, if necessary, are removed on days 7-10, and full recovery takes 5 to 14 days.

It is possible to apply a special cosmetic suture of absorbable threads to the skin, which does not require removal.

Remember that timely sterilization not only prolongs the life of a cat and prevents many diseases, but also reduces the number of homeless animals.

Laparoscopy in Chelyabinsk at MEDEOR Medical Center

Laparoscopic surgeries in the medical center “Medeor”

At present, modern medicine has made a big step forward. This applies in particular to gynecology. Women got the opportunity to treat diseases of the reproductive system, which were previously passed as a sentence. One such treatment is laparoscopy.

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive, that is, minimal surgical intervention that allows not only to carry out an accurate diagnosis, but also immediately, if necessary, to perform a number of surgical actions to treat the identified problem. Therefore, conventionally, laparoscopy is divided into diagnostic and therapeutic. Like any surgical operation, laparoscopy can also be planned and emergency.

How is gynecological laparoscopic surgery performed?

The operation can be performed under general anesthesia. In the anterior abdominal wall, the doctor makes 3-4 five-millimeter holes, which are located in the inguinal zone and near the patient’s navel. For better visual viewing and to reduce the risk of injury to internal organs, carbon dioxide is pumped into the abdominal cavity. Then a thin tube with a video camera is inserted through one of the holes – a laparoscope. With the help of optics, the laparoscope transmits a video image to the monitor screen. The resulting picture is broadcast in a sixfold increase. Through the remaining 2-3 holes, manipulator instruments are inserted inside, which the surgeon, like the laparoscope, controls from the outside. When the procedure is completed, the devices are removed, the gas is released from the abdominal cavity, and the holes are sutured.

What are the benefits of laparoscopy?

Thus, laparoscopy has a number of undeniable advantages over abdominal surgery:

• minimal blood loss;
• operating organs for the doctor are more clearly visible;
• minor pain syndrome;
• good cosmetic effect;
• postoperative adhesions do not form;
• short period of hospitalization;
• short rehabilitation period;
• pregnancy planning after laparoscopy is possible as soon as possible.

Who is eligible for laparoscopy?

Indications for elective laparoscopy in gynecology are:

• removal of ovarian cysts and tumors
• removal of uterine fibroids
• removal of the uterus (hysterectomy)
• restoration of functional patency of the fallopian tubes
• diagnosis and treatment of external endometriosis
• diagnosis and treatment of chronic pelvic pain
• diagnosis and treatment of congenital malformations of the genital apparatus
• diagnosis and treatment of polycystic ovaries (wedge resection and coagulation)
• correction of prolapse and prolapse of the genital organs
• diagnosis and treatment of causes of infertility
• IVF preparation
• sterilization procedure (tubal ligation)

Rehabilitation period after laparoscopy

After the operation, 3-4 incisions 5 mm long remain on the skin of the abdomen.