Tubal Ligation Pain Syndrome
Many women experience a significant increase in pelvic pain after a tubal ligation. For some women the post tubal ligation pain syndrome can be debilitating. Tubal reversal surgery has been able to help some women suffering from severe menstrual pain after a tubal ligation.
Pain Following a Tubal Ligation
Tubal ligation pain syndrome, or post-tubal ligation syndrome is a very controversial topic. Many studies have failed to show a link between the ongoing pain following a tubal ligation and changes in ovarian hormones and blood flow. Some people suspect the blockage of backwards flow of menses into the Fallopian tubes and into the abdomen may cause increase pressure and PMS type symptoms. While the existence of the post tubal ligation pain syndrome (PTLS) is debated, many patients have reported consistent symptoms for years after the surgery and also reported pain relief after a tubal ligation reversal. While the surgery is no certain to fix pain symptoms, patients may discuss their experiences with our doctor to see if surgery may be of benefit.
Pain and PTLS
New onset of pain Immediately after surgery is very common. Patients also report increased PMS symptoms and pain that doesn’t completely go away even after menses. The pain is described as being different from surgical pain.
Discuss Surgery
Surgery may not be able to make the pain go away or may only partially relieve the other symptoms. You should discuss your experiences with your doctor to see if tubal reversal surgery is right for you.
Mental Health of PTLS
Women report having more anxiety and depression as a result of the pain following a tubal ligation. Mood swings associated with PMS can be more pronounced as women are having to cope with a chronic condition and chronic pain.
Pregnancy and PTLS
For women experiencing pain after a tubal ligation and also desiring to have a baby, tubal reversal surgery may be a better option than in vitro fertilization (IVF) due to the potential to relieve the pain associated with the post tubal ligation pain syndrome.
There is Hope
Tubal Reversal Surgery
The tubal reversal surgery involves making a incision in the abdomen and reconnecting the Fallopian tubes under a microscope. This surgery requires general anesthesia. The surgery typically lasts from 2.5 hours up to 4 hours. Because of the abdominal incision, recovery from the surgery typically takes 2-3 weeks before most patients resume normal activities, and several months for a full recovery. The majority of patients with tubal ligation pain syndrome will notice benefits very quickly after surgery and most patients will report a significant reduction in their pain with menses.