Reversal of Sterilization

Spire Dunedin, in Reading, is now able to offer private Reversal of Sterilization for women with the addition of Mr Alex Swanton, Consultant Gynaecologist, and Specialist in Reproductive Medicine & Surgery.

Female sterilization is considered to be a permanent form of contraception. The operation usually involves cutting, sealing or blocking the fallopian tubes so that eggs cannot be transported into the uterus where they might be fertilised. A female sterilization reversal operation attempts to reconnect the fallopian tubes.

Female sterilization can be reversed, but it is a difficult process and there is no guarantee that you will be fertile again after the operation. The operation is done under general anaesthetic through a bikini incision. The ends of the tube are trimmed to remove damaged tissue and then reconnected.

Issues to be considered beforehand:

• The quality and quantity of partner sperm. If the sperm quality is poor then IVF can be a better option to proceed with
• Sterilization method: The longer the length of the fallopian tube after reconnecting them increases the chance of pregnancy.
• The condition of the fimbria in the tubes.
• The sooner the reversal takes place after the original operation, the greater the chance of future pregnancy.
• The age of the women at the time of reversal.

Advantages and disadvantages to reversal of sterilization;

• Natural contraception will occur if the reversal is successful, as opposed to medically assisted if IVF was used.
• Reduced rate of multi pregnancy with a natural conception.
• Success rates depend on a number of factors, but are between 50-70%, whereas, IVF offers 20-40% per treatment cycle.
• It cannot be guaranteed to be successful.
• The length of time to know the outcome can be up to and beyond a year, the chances of getting pregnant increase with time, whereas, IVF you can find out two weeks after the embryo transfer.
• Family planning may be required for all future pregnancies.