Is Pregnancy Possible After Tubal Ligation?

Posted on Mon, 28 Nov 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 28 Nov 2016 Answered on

Thu, 15 Dec 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : it's been 8 to 10 weeks without a period. She had her tubes tied 2years ago. Regular urine pregnancy tests are negative. What could be going on? What are the chances for a regular pregnancy? Age 36.

Answered by Dr. Sameer Kumar (-3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
she can't get pregnant with tubes tied.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
thanks for the query to HCM,
iF YOUR BOTH TUBES Are tied, then she cannot get pregnant till the fallopian tubes are recanalized. The delay in menses could be due to stress induced hormonal imbalances during the cycle. But regular pregnancy is possible only after tubes are opened again.
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. Sameer Kumar (20 hours later)

I have heard other women who have had their tubes tied get pregnant so can I please be connected to a obgyn doctor

Answered by Dr. Sameer Kumar (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
answered

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I am an OB/gyn myself. Tubal ligature failures rates are 0.1 % and the result or accidental pregnancies can be seen within 6 months of tubal ligation if teh procedure failed due to improper surgical techniques.
However if you are skeptical about the cause, then you may get a serum beta hcg test done to conclusively rule out pregnancy. If the hcg levels are less than 3mIU then you are surely not pregnant.
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Sameer Kumar (5 minutes later)

That is a blood test right? And if it is ectopic or a tubal pregnancy will that test show if I am still pregnant or not?

Answered by Dr. Sameer Kumar (3 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes..

Detailed Answer:
Yes, it would definitely shows raised hcg levels if you are pregnant. If the levels are high then the next step shall be to get a transvaginal ultrasound to locate the pregnancy. Then it would be mandatory for you to seek an appointment with your gynecologist.
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar