Tubal ligation, also known as "getting your tubes tied," is a permanent form of birth control in which a woman's fallopian tubes are surgically cut, tied, or blocked to prevent fertilization. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and can be done through small incisions in the abdomen or through the vagina.
The most common method is the "minilaparotomy," in which the surgeon makes a small incision in the abdomen and uses a small clamp, ring, or clip to block the fallopian tubes. Another method is called "laparoscopic tubal ligation," in which a laparoscope (a thin, lighted instrument) is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen to locate the fallopian tubes and then cut or blocked them.
Tubal ligation is considered a permanent form of birth control and is usually recommended for women who have completed their family and are certain they do not want to have any more children. The procedure is considered safe, but as with any surgery, there are some risks involved.