People change their opinion about having children all the time. In fact, up to 30% of women who get their fallopian tubes tied seek a tubal reversal.

The tying of the fallopian tubes, a procedure called tubal ligation, can be a permanent contraceptive method, but only for those who want it to be permanent. Tubal reversal is a surgical procedure that unties the fallopian tubes, enabling patients to become fertile again.

In this blog, pregnancy specialist Dr. John Macey, who has treated many women with pregnancy issues at his OB/GYN practice in Nashville, Tennessee, explains what you need to know about getting pregnant after a tubal reversal.

What are the chances of getting pregnant after a tubal reversal?

For women under age 40, the success rate of a tubal reversal ranges from 40-80%, depending on the type of tubal ligation used. After age 40, the success rate for a tubal reversal drops to 25%.

Women who’ve had only a small part of their fallopian tubes removed and women who’ve had their fallopian tubes blocked with rings or clips are more likely to be able to get pregnant after a tubal reversal without the help of fertility treatments.

Women older than age 40 can increase their chances of getting pregnant with the help of either intrauterine insemination or in vitro fertilization.

Are there any issues with pregnancy after a tubal reversal?

Surgery on the fallopian tubes may increase your risk of a medical emergency referred to as an ectopic pregnancy, in which the embryo attaches outside the uterus. If you plan to get pregnant after a tubal reversal, you may need a vaginal ultrasound to ensure the fetus is in the womb.

A fertilized egg can’t normally develop outside of the uterus, so the tissue has to be removed. Caught early, an ectopic pregnancy is treatable with shots or pills. However, if the embryo continues developing outside of the womb, you may need to undergo surgery. Left untreated, an ectopic pregnancy can lead to internal bleeding and present a life-threatening situation.

Am I a good candidate for a tubal reversal?

Upon consultation, Dr. Macey will review your medical records to determine how your tubes were tied and how much tube tissue was removed.

If more than 2.36 inches (6 centimeters) were removed, the success rate for a tubal reversal is low. However, if you were fertile and in good health before you underwent tubal ligation, your chances of becoming pregnant after a tubal reversal are high.

To see if you’re a good candidate for a tubal reversal, book an appointment online or over the phone with the practice of Dr. John Macey today.