Hysteroscopic Sterilisation

Hysteroscopic sterilisation is a new method for permanent birth control. Like other forms of birth control, hysteroscopic sterilisation has its benefits and risks that need to be considered.

Some of the benefits of hysteroscopic sterilisation are :

No hospital stay - Hysteroscopic sterilisation is done as an outpatient procedure in the Day Surgery. There is no need to be admitted to hospital.
No anaesthesia risks - Hysteroscopic sterilisation can be done under local anaesthesia or even without anaesthesia. Hence the risks of general anaesthesia are avoided.
No incision wound or scarring - Hysteroscopic sterilisation is done through the normal birth passage. Hence there is no surgical cut required.
Quick - The procedure takes only about 30 minutes.
Fast recovery - Following the procedure, you should be able to return to your daily routine activities in a day or two.

How Is Hysteroscopic Sterilisation Done?

Hysteroscopic sterilisation is carried out with a small telescopic instrument called the hysteroscope. This is introduced into your womb to see the opening into your fallopian tubes.

A small flexible micro-coil is then placed in each fallopian tube to block the fallopian tubes thus preventing the sperm from reaching the egg.

To enable the procedure to be carried out smoothly, you will be given some medication before the operation.

Throughout the operation, you will be able to see the procedures on the video monitor if you choose to.

After The Procedure

Discomfort

You may feel some cramps in the lower abdomen. This can be relieved with some pain-killer medication that will be provided.

Vaginal Bleeding

Some mild vaginal bleeding is expected. Bleeding between your normal menses may occur.

Activities

Depending on how you feel, you may be able to get back to your normal activities immediately after the procedure.

Other Investigation

Pelvic X-rays may be ordered to confirm the position of the coil in the fallopian tube. A special X-ray called the hystero-salpingogram (HSG), will also be required 3 months after the procedure to confirm that your tubes are totally blocked.

Sexual Activity

As the fallopian tube takes up to 3 months to be totally blocked, you will be advised to use an alternative contraception for this period of time. Sexual activity can then be resumed without any interruption

Follow-up Appointment

A follow-up appointment will be made in 3 months' time. This is to check that you are well after the hysteroscopic sterilisation as well as to confirm that you are effectively sterilised.

Consult your doctor if you experience: