Transcervical sterilization

Abstract

Sterilization is frequently chosen as a method of permanent contraception. Traditional approaches involve surgery under anesthesia in an operating room and are associated with a recovery period and scars. Transcervical sterilization is an incision-free, minimally invasive approach to sterilization. When compared with laparoscopic surgery, transcervical hysteroscopic sterilization does not need to be performed in an operating room, requires less anesthesia, has a shorter recovery period, and is more cost effective. The Essure Permanent Birth Control System (Conceptus, Inc., Mountain View, CA) and Adiana Permanent Contraception System (Hologic, Inc., Bedford, MA) are two available hysteroscopic sterilization techniques. They cause fibrosis and tubal occlusion over a 3-month period so women must use an alternative form of contraception during the first 3 months. A 3-month hysterosalpingogram confirms successful placement and tubal occlusion. Transcervical sterilization is similarly effective to other sterilization methods and is satisfactory to women.