I am due in May w/ #2 and will be having another c-section. I will be 44 so we are done, done, done. I asked about a tubal ligation after the c-section at my last OB appointment, and my doctor gave me a brochure about "Essure" which doesn't seem to be the same thing.
Anyone know the difference and have experience or intel they can share? I'm not sure if I should push for a regular tubal or if "Essure" is the way to go.
Re: Essure vs tubal
I don't have any experience but I'm finding their website very informative.
https://www.essure.com/what-is-essure/common-questions
I am an OR nurse and see a lot of both of these at work. The main difference is the Essure is done through the vagina and uterus, and therefore less "invasive" than a laparoscopic tubal ligation. You would probably have some menstrual type cramping and possibly some light bleeding, but otherwise comfortable to go about your daily routine the next day or so. The tubal ligation would be a more invasive surgery with recovery time. They are both considered permanent procedures, but like someone else said, you would need to do a follow-up ultrasound to make sure it worked.
There are also different ways to do a tubal. Some docs cut the tubes, some put a clip on the tube, some put a rubber band-like implant around the tube. I would find out which one your doctor uses and make sure you are comfortable with that option as well.