Thousands of women who undergo what they believe to be a permanent birth control solution still get pregnant years later, according to a recent study. The finding means that tubal ligation, commonly known as getting tubes tied, might not be as effective as previously thought in preventing pregnancy. In fact, the study suggests that up to 5% of women who undergo the procedure might become pregnant. This number is significantly higher than previous estimates, which hovered around 1%. 

So, what happens when women who have their tubes tied get pregnant? The experience can be distressing, to say the least. According to Dr. Eleanor Bimla Schwarz, an internal medicine physician and the author of the study, "Learning they got pregnant can be very distressing. It turns out this is, unfortunately, a fairly common experience." But what's even more important is understanding why this is happening in the first place.

Tubal ligation, or getting tubes tied, is meant to be a permanent solution for women who do not want to have more children. However, the study suggests that the procedure may not be as effective as previously thought in preventing pregnancy. In fact, the researchers found that women who use reversible forms of contraception, such as IUDs, are less likely to become pregnant than those who have their tubes tied. 

But what about the women who do get pregnant despite having their tubes tied? For them, the experience can be especially difficult. According to Dr. Schwarz, "For people who have chosen a 'permanent' method, learning they got pregnant can be very distressing. It turns out this is, unfortunately, a fairly common experience." But what's even more important is understanding the reasons behind this phenomenon.

The study's findings are especially timely, given the recent surge in public interest in surgical sterilization following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn the federal right to abortion. With more people seeking out permanent forms of birth control, it's crucial that women understand the potential risks and limitations of tubal ligation. As Dr. Schwarz notes, "Since the Dobbs decision, many more people are worried about how pregnancy may impact their health and family life."

The Imperfect Permanent: Tubal Ligation's Hidden Pregnancy Risk

Actions