How to Decide to Get Essure Sterilization

Deciding whether to get Essure sterilization should not be taken lightly. It is a permanent procedure, and the purpose is to cause infertility in a woman. Essure is different from the other methods of sterilization, in that it requires little to no downtime, and is completely non-invasive. However, consider the risks when deciding on the Essure procedure.

Instructions

• 1

  Decide with no doubt that permanent sterilization is what you want . The Essure procedure is even more permanent than tubal ligation. Essure reversal requires major abdominal surgery, and may not be successful.

• 2

  Find out the risks involved. While Essure is different than the other sterilization techniques in that it is done in an office, and it doesn't require general anesthesia usually, there are still risks. Perforation during insertion of the springs, as well as the possibility of infection, while low, do exist.

• 3

  Discuss the decision with a doctor. He can determine whether you are a candidate for the Essure procedure. If you could be pregnant, or within 6 weeks of being pregnant, you are not a candidate. Any current pelvic infection must be treated and cured before the Essure procedure can be performed. Also, a past tubal ligation, or any other reason why the springs cannot be successfully inserted into both tubes eliminates a person from being able to have Essure procedure. Let your doctor know if you have sensitivity or allergy to nickel, although a 2011 study by doctors at Baylor College of Medicine in Texas determined that adverse reaction to the small amount of nickel in Essure are extremely rare.

• 4

  Understand the wait time of effectiveness on Essure. It is not effective for three to six months after the procedure is completed. If getting Essure after a birth, it is necessary to wait six weeks postpartum before getting the procedure done. Other birth control will be necessary during this time to prevent a pregnancy.

• 5

  Commit to the follow up appointments. These appointments are HSG (hysterosalpingogram) tests during which a contrast dye is injected through the cervix into the uterus, while undergoing an x-ray. The dye will not enter the fallopian tubes if the procedure was successful. If dye does enter the tube, another HSG will have to be performed in three months to verify procedure success. Infertility cannot be verified in any other way, so these are absolutely necessary to ensure that the Essure is effective.