Hysteroscopic Sterilization

Hysteroscopic sterilization is a method of permanent birth control that prevents a woman’s eggs from traveling through the fallopian tubes to reach sperm. The procedure requires no general anesthesia or incisions. It is performed through a hysteroscope, a type of endoscope that allows a physician to see through the cervix into the uterus. Traditionally, a woman’s fallopian tubes were tied or cut to prevent conception. As an alternative, UAB uses the Essure hysteroscopic sterilization method that provides permanent birth control via placement of a flexible micro-insert device into each fallopian tube. The procedure takes less than 20 minutes. It can be performed in an office setting, and has a short recovery time, with most women able to resume normal activities within 24 hours. Patients must use an alternative form of birth control for the first three months after the procedure. During that period, fibrous tissue ingrowth will anchor the micro-device firmly in place and fully blocks the fallopian tube. Patients return three months post-procedure for a low-pressure hysterosalpingogram to confirm correct micro-insert placement and tube blockage. Essure was approved by the FDA for use in the U.S. in 2002.

UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology offers comprehensive women’s health care in a private, personal environment, with physicians and nurses who are dedicated to delivering excellent care. Because our physicians are nationally recognized specialists in their fields, you can rest assured that you are receiving the most advanced care available. UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology is consistently ranked among the best programs of its kind in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

As part of the UAB Division of Women’s Reproductive Healthcare, UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology’s services range from complete obstetric care to the medical and surgical treatment of complicated gynecological concerns. We work closely with the UAB Medicine Interventional Radiology team to diagnose and treat your condition, using the latest and most accurate technology and imaging methods, including fluoroscopy, ultrasound, and CT scans. Because UAB Medicine is an academic health center, patients may be offered participation in clinical research trials, which can give you access to new techniques and treatments that are not available elsewhere in the area. Our physicians are here for you at all times, from your first routine gynecological exam, to delivering your baby, to guiding you through menopause. When you establish a relationship with our doctors, you can rely upon that relationship throughout your lifetime.

Care Providers

Stefanie Fieno, CRNP Obstetrics and Gynecology

Shweta Patel, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology

Videos

Resources

• UAB Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Related Specialties

• OBGYN Services
  Women & Infants Services