Permanent Sterilization

VasectomyIf you know that you are finished having children or wish to prevent unplanned pregnancies, it may be time to consider permanent forms of birth control. When deciding on permanent sterilization, women face several options, including invasive tube-tying procedures or long-term hormonal treatment. However, a cutting-edge technique known as the Essure® procedure now offers a minimally invasive approach to permanent birth control.

Essure is an incision-free permanent sterilization procedure that forms a natural barrier to prevent pregnancy. The board-certified OB-GYNs in the La Peer Health Systems Department of Gynecology perform the Essure procedure as an alternative to more invasive surgical methods of permanent sterilization.

What Does the Essure Procedure Involve?

Essure is a minimally invasive technique that is performed on an outpatient basis at La Peer Health Systems. During the procedure, our expert gynecologists utilize a flexible, camera-equipped device known as a hysteroscope to guide the Essure inserts through the natural pathways of the vagina and cervix and into the fallopian tubes. The Essure procedure does not require any incisions and is typically completed in 30 minutes.

Over the next three months, the Essure inserts form a natural barrier within the lining of the fallopian tubes. During this three-month period, while the lining of the fallopian tubes continues to thicken, patients must use another form of birth control.

Three months after the Essure procedure, an Essure Confirmation Test is necessary. During the confirmation test, our gynecologists insert a special dye into the uterus that can be viewed on an x-ray to confirm successful placement of the inserts and closure of the fallopian tubes. Following this check-up, patients can be confident that they are protected from unplanned pregnancy.

Benefits of the Essure Procedure

As a minimally invasive procedure, Essure offers numerous benefits to patients compared with traditional sterilization methods. Notable advantages of Essure include:

  • 99.8% success rate
  • Incision-free
  • Hormone-free
  • Outpatient procedure
  • Quick recovery (less than a day)

After permanent sterilization, a woman no longer needs to worry about the risk of pregnancy or the possible side effects of hormone-based contraceptives. Moreover, the Essure procedure does not impair sexual desire or pleasure; many patients have claimed that permanent sterilization actually enhances their sexual activity by removing the fear of unwanted pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are the Essure inserts safe?

A: The Essure inserts are FDA-approved and are made of the same material used in heart stents and hundreds of other medical devices. They utilize the body’s natural healing response to thicken and close off the fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy.

Q: Will I be able to feel the Essure inserts in my body?

A: No, you will not be able to feel the inserts, which are designed to conform to the size and shape of the fallopian tubes.

Q: Is Essure easily reversible?

A: No, Essure is a form of permanent sterilization. Careful consideration and discussion with your physician are important before undergoing this procedure.

Q: Is there still a risk of getting pregnant after permanent sterilization?

A: After undergoing the Essure procedure and subsequent imaging to confirm successful placement of the Essure insert, the risk of failure is less than 1 percent.

Q: Is Essure covered by insurance?

A: The Essure procedure is covered by most major health insurance providers. You may contact your insurance provider or La Peer directly to confirm your coverage.

Contact a Los Angeles Gynecologist

Led by renowned gynecologist & obstetrician, Peyman Banooni, MD, the La Peer Health Systems Department of Gynecology boasts the most advanced procedures available for the treatment of a variety of female genitourinary conditions. Housed in a start-of-the art outpatient center in Beverly Hills, our physicians are dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered healthcare.

To learn more about the Essure procedure or permanent sterilization, you may contact us by calling 855.360.9119 or by filling out our online contact form to schedule your initial consultation. Please visit the Surgical Gynecology Center of Excellence website, which provides more information about our gynecology department at La Peer.

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