Essure™: Permanent Birth Control done in the Office

Many women are interested in a method of permanent birth control. They are looking for something safe and reliable as well as something that fits into their lifestyles and personal desires. Some women undergo a tubal ligation (tube tying) at the time of delivering a baby. Others have the procedure done later in the day-surgery setting under general anesthesia. But for many women, their needs are different and they are looking for another solution. Now, advances in technology provide an alternative for permanent birth control which can be done in the privacy and convenience of the doctor's office.

The procedure is called Essure™. It involves placing a narrow scope through the vagina, cervix and into the uterus. The openings of the fallopian tubes are then identified. Next, small micro-inserts or "plugs" are placed into each opening. Over the next three months, a tissue barrier forms that prevents sperm from reaching the egg. Until an x-ray confirms that the tubes are blocked, other contraception must be used.

Every woman is an individual and has her own needs and desires. Many women are finding Essure™ an ideal solution for themselves. Some want to avoid or may be at high risk for general anesthesia and incisions. Others are looking for the convenience of a short yet effective procedure done during an office visit with a short recovery period. And still others are combining this with an endometrial ablation as alternative to a hysterectomy for abnormal uterine bleeding. Advantages of the Essure procedure include:

• Effective, permanent birth control
• No admission to the hospital or surgery center - done in the
  privacy and convenience of the office
• No IV
• No general anesthesia (being put to sleep)
• Short procedure time - in and out of office in less than an hour
• No incisions or scars
• Minimal "down time" - back to normal routine the next morning
• No hormones involved
• X-ray reassures you that the procedure has worked can be relied upon

This procedure is not for everyone. Treatment options need to be tailored to each individual patient. The indications, risks, benefits and alternatives need to be discussed with each individual patient and her physician. Then an informed decision can be made. Call today for a consultation with Dr. Whitfield or second opinion and find out if Essure™ is right for you. (817) 927-2229.

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John A. Whitfield, M.D., F.A.C.O.G.
(817) 927-2229

1250 Eighth Avenue, Suite 540, Fort Worth, TX 76104
In the Professional Pavilion at Baylor All Saints