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In-Office Tubal Sterilization—Essure® Procedure

The Essure® procedure is a method of permanent sterilization that does not involve cutting into the body.  By placing a small tube with a camera on the end (a hysteroscope) into the uterus, tiny coils can be placed into the fallopian tubes.  During the next 3 months, tissue grows in and around the micro-insert coils, thereby blocking the fallopian tubes.  An X-ray dye study of the uterus (hysterosalpingogram or HSG) is done after 3 months to confirm tubal blockage.  Another method of birth control should be used for at least 3 months until the HSG confirms blockage.  Essure® is 99.8% effective.

 

What Will I Feel During the Essure® Procedure?

 

Essure® may be done as an outpatient and may even be done in our office.  It does not require general anesthesia and takes an average of 35 minutes to perform.  Some women experience menstrual-like cramping, though others experience no discomfort at all.  You will receive some medications prior to the start of surgery, and possibly a mild intravenous sedative, to minimize the cramping.  In addition, local anesthesia will be injected in and around the cervix.    Essure® can be done immediately following the Novasure® procedure in women who need treatment for menorrhagia and who desire permanent sterilization.   

 

What Can I Expect After the Procedure?

 

You may experience some cramping and discomfort which can generally be treated with ibuprofen.  92% of patients resumed work in 24 hours or less following the procedure.

 

What Risks are Associated with the Essure® Procedure?

 

Some of the risks of this procedure are bleeding, infection, possible injury to the uterus, bowel or bladder.  About 14% of the time, it may not be possible to place both micro-inserts.

 

 

If you think you would be a candidate for this procedure, 

please call our office at 650-988-7550 for an appointment

 
Information on this website is for educational and reference purposes only and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice.
Copyright © 2006
Women Physicians
Ob-Gyn Medical Group

650.988.7550