Dr. Bruce Semo at Irys Medical Center provides expert female sterilization procedures for women who are certain they don't want more children. A safe, permanent solution with over 99% effectiveness.
Female sterilization (tubal ligation or "having your tubes tied") is a permanent surgical procedure that blocks or seals the fallopian tubes, preventing eggs from reaching the uterus and sperm from reaching the eggs. It's considered one of the most effective forms of birth control, with a success rate of over 99%. This procedure is intended for women who are absolutely certain they do not want to become pregnant in the future.
Sterilization should be considered permanent. While surgical reversal is technically possible, it requires major surgery, is significantly more expensive, and isn't always successful. Dr. Semo provides extensive counseling to ensure this is the right decision for your long-term life plans.
Sterilization is perfect for women who:
Dr. Semo carefully evaluates each patient to ensure they understand the permanent nature of this decision and have considered all long-acting reversible alternatives.
Most Common Method — Minimally Invasive
Uses tiny incisions and a camera (laparoscope). Dr. Semo uses rings, clips, or electrocautery to block the tubes. Performed under general anesthesia, usually a 30-minute procedure, with same-day discharge.
Conveniently Performed After Delivery
Done within 48 hours after childbirth through a small incision below the belly button. This offers convenient timing and a faster recovery while already in the hospital.
Small Incision Method
Involves a 2-3 inch incision just above the pubic hairline. This is a good option when laparoscopic access isn't possible, though it requires a slightly longer recovery than laparoscopic surgery.
No-Incision Option (Historical)
*Note: While largely discontinued, this method involved tiny inserts placed through the vagina into the fallopian tubes. Tissue grows around them, creating a natural blockage. This required no incisions and used local anesthesia only.
For laparoscopic sterilization (the most common method), Dr. Semo makes 2-3 tiny incisions in your abdomen (usually near the belly button). He uses these incisions to insert a laparoscope (a camera) and specialized instruments to access and block your fallopian tubes. Methods used include:
The entire procedure takes about 30 minutes under general anesthesia. You'll wake up in recovery and can usually go home the same day.
Female sterilization is highly effective, at over 99%. The chance of failure is less than 1 in 100 women over their entire lifetime. To understand its reliability:
It's important to remember that sterilization does not protect against STDs—condoms are still required for disease prevention.
Beyond permanent pregnancy prevention, sterilization offers significant life advantages:
Dr. Bruce Semo has performed hundreds of sterilization procedures with exceptional skill and care. He fully understands the weight of this permanent decision and provides thorough, non-judgmental counseling to ensure it's right for you.
"This isn't just a medical procedure—it's a life decision. I spend as much time as needed making sure every patient feels completely confident and informed."
His gentle laparoscopic technique minimizes scarring and speeds recovery. Importantly, he is available 24/7 for any concerns during your recovery period.
Schedule Consultation with Dr. SemoRecovery is typically quick and straightforward after a laparoscopic procedure:
Dr. Semo provides detailed aftercare instructions and pain management. You'll have a follow-up appointment to check your incisions and ensure proper healing.
While generally very safe, as a surgical procedure, sterilization does carry some risks:
Dr. Semo discusses all risks thoroughly during your consultation and uses advanced techniques that minimize complications.
While sterilization must be considered permanent, reversal is technically possible in some cases (depending on the original method used):
Dr. Semo discusses these reversal possibilities and alternatives during your initial consultation so you can make a fully informed decision.
Before choosing permanent sterilization, Dr. Semo encourages considering these highly effective, long-acting reversible options:
Dr. Semo explores all viable contraceptive options with you to ensure you choose the method that best fits your life and future plans.