Birth Control Permanent Methods (cont.)

Birth Control Slideshow Pictures

Medical Author:

Omnia M Samra, MD

Medical Editor:

Suzanne R Trupin, MD

Medical Editor:

Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD

Medical Editor:

Lee P Shulman, MD

Female Sterilization, Implants

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just recently approved a small metallic implant (Essure) that is placed into the fallopian tubes of women who wish to be permanently sterilized.

During the implantation procedure, the doctor inserts one of the devices into each of the 2 fallopian tubes. This is done with a special catheter (tube) that is inserted through the vagina into the uterus, and then into the fallopian tube. The device works by making scar tissue form over the implant, blocking the fallopian tube and preventing fertilization of the egg by the sperm.

During the first 3 months, women cannot rely on the Essure implants and must use alternate birth control. At the 3-month point, women must undergo a final x-ray procedure in which dye is placed in the uterus and an x-ray is taken to confirm proper device placement. Once placement is confirmed, you do not need another form of birth control.

In studies of the device so far, no women using it have become pregnant.

The procedure cannot be reversed. This is a permanent form of birth control. Sometimes doctors have difficulty placing the implants. There is risk of ectopic pregnancy, a life-threatening condition that requires emergency medical care. Implants do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).