FEMALE STERILIZATION

MARIE STOPES LIGATION (MSL):

WHAT IS A MARIE STOPES LIGATION (MSL)?

The Marie Stopes Ligation (MSL) is an irreversible and voluntary, permanent, surgical contraceptive procedure performed on a woman under conscious sedation.

HOW DOES THE MSL WORK?

The MSL involves the surgical closing of the fallopian tubes thus preventing the egg from reaching the uterus.

HOW RELIABLE IS THE MSL?

The MSL is over 99% effective.

ADVANTAGES:

• It is a permanent form of contraception for women who do not want any more children.
• It is lifelong, safe and very effective.
• Sex can be enjoyed without the worry of pregnancy.
• Sex is not interrupted for contraception.
• It is a safe and simple procedure.
• It does not effect normal hormone production.
• The procedure can be carried out even if the woman is HIV+.

WHEN IS IT SUITABLE FOR A WOMAN TO HAVE A MSL?

A woman can have a MSL any time, provided:

·         She does not want any more children, or if she has none, she has decided that she will never want any.

·         She understands it is an irreversible, permanent method of contraception.

·         She clearly understands the benefits, possible complications and that there is a small risk of failure

·         She has made an informed, voluntary decision.

·         Within 3 weeks of childbirth or 3 weeks thereafter.

·         After an uncomplicated MSP (Termination of Pregnancy.)

AREAS OF CONCERN:

• The usual minor risks apply that are associated with:

1.       Minor surgery.

2.       Anesthesia.

• Risk of an ectopic pregnancy if the pregnancy occurs after the tubal ligation.
• Permanent nature of the procedure.
• A MSL will not protect a woman against STI’s /HIV.

WHEN IS A MSL UNSUITABLE?

·         If she is pregnant.

·         If she has a STI/PID (Infection in female organs).

·         If she has an acute medical condition.

·         If she has unexplained vaginal bleeding that suggests she has an underlying illness.

WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE THAT WILL BE FOLLOWED?

·         The procedure is performed by a trained Dr, an assistant and the anesthetist.

·         The anesthetist will sedate the woman before the procedure starts.

·         A small incision is made above the the hairline and just below the navel.

·         The tubes are located with a laparoscope ( an instrument with a little camera ), cut and cauterized.

·         Both incisions on the abdomen are sutured with soluble stitches.( stitches that does not require removal ).

·         The woman will rest comfortably for an hour where her recovery can be observed.

·         Blood pressure and pulse will be checked.

·         The woman is free to leave when she feels ready.

The Marie Stopes Ligation is available at certain centres.

For further information or to make a confidential booking please call our

Toll Free Number: 0800 11 77 85