tubal ligation

When does the doctor do a tubal ligation?  I'm pregnant with my third child and plan to have my tubes tied after birth.  Does the doctor tie my tubes at the time of delivery?  (even if it is vaginal vs. C-section?) or is that something that i would have to return post delivery for?

[peekawho]

Some doctors do it immediately after delivery (if vaginal), but more often it's scheduled for the next day after delivery.  Many times it is done near the time of the six week checkup as an outpatient procedure.  If you have a C/Section, it is done at the time of delivery.

Not all hospitals do tubal ligations, however.  Be sure you are not delivering at a Catholic facility, as most of them will not do them.

For the procedure itself (if you don't have it done at C/Section), you will be given either a spinal or general anesthetic.  A small incision is made just under your belly button (sometimes, almost in it).  The tubes are identified, cut, a portion removed, and the ends are ligated (tied with suture).  Sometimes they are burned with cautery.  There are also clips that can be used.  The whole thing takes about 15-20 min.  

You may be a bit sore, but recovery in general is quick.