If you’ve had your tubes tied (otherwise known as tubal litigation) or are considering the procedure, you may be wondering if there is any chance of still
getting pregnant. Overall, tubal litigation is a highly effective means of contraception. However, there is still a chance of pregnancy.
Chance of Natural Pregnancy
Tubal litigation is about 99.9% effective, which means that a small number of women who have had the procedure still get pregnant naturally. Occasionally, as the fallopian tubes heal, a small opening called a fistula can remain. This opening can allow sperm to reach and fertilize an egg. Unfortunately, women who conceive after having their tubes tied have a high chance of ectopic pregnancy. This is because the egg can become blocked in the partially healed tube. If you have had your tubes tied but begin to experience signs of pregnancy (such as missing your period), you should talk with your doctor as soon as possible.
Tubal Litigation Reversal
If you have had your tubes tied but decide you would like to have a baby, you may be able to naturally conceive after undergoing a reversal procedure. Not all women are eligible for tubal litigation reversal surgery; usually it is only possible if you had your tubes closed with rings or clips. Even for eligible women, the procedure does not have a 100% success rate. However, if you would like to get pregnant naturally after having your tubes tied, a reversal procedure is your best option.
In Vitro Fertilization
For many women who have had their tubes tied, in vitro fertilization (
IVF) represents the best chance of getting pregnant. An IVF procedure removes the woman’s eggs, fertilizes them with the man’s sperm, and then surgically inserts the eggs into the woman’s uterus. Unlike other methods of artificial insemination, IVF bypasses the fallopian tubes.
