reversibility

Last reviewed 01/2018

Reversal of sterilisation is requested in more than 1% of previously sterilised women and in nearly 5% of those who made their original decision immediately after delivery. When a lady is counselled re: reversibility of the procedure, she should be told that she should consider the procedure irreversible.

The actual success of reversing the procedure is dependent upon:

  • the sterilisation technique previously employed - easiest when rings or clips were used

  • the length of tube destroyed

  • whether or not the fimbriae are intact

  • the proficiency of the surgeon

With modern microsurgical techniques and a good surgeon, a subsequent pregnancy may be expected in up to 70% of cases.

In vitro fertilisation is an alternative.