A tubal ligation ("having your tubes tied") is a type of surgery for women that permanently prevents pregnancy (sterilization). During a tubal ligation, the fallopian tubes are closed to prevent fertilization; this blocks the sperms' path to the egg.
The fallopian tubes can be cut, clamped closed, or tied off, or the ends may be sealed by applying heat (cautery).
Author:Merrill Hayden
Medical Review:Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine
Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Updated: 05/23/2006
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