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Laparoscopic Tubal Ligation

Picture of laparoscopic tubal ligation for female sterilization

A laparoscopic tubal ligation is done to permanently prevent a woman from getting pregnant. During this procedure, the doctor makes two small cuts (incisions). The dotted lines show where the cuts are made. One incision is just below your belly button and another is just above your pubic hairline.

The doctor puts a lighted tube, or scope, and other surgical tools through the incisions. The doctor is able to see your fallopian tubes with the scope. The fallopian tubes are then cut, clamped closed, tied off or sealed by applying heat (cautery).

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Femi Olatunbosun, MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Revised May 4, 2012

Last Revised: May 4, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine & Femi Olatunbosun, MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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