Tubal reversal is a way of restoring fertility for women when the tubes have been cut or tied, and a pregnancy is desired. When a tubal reversal is not an option, there are alternatives to tubal reversal surgery.
1. IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)
IVF is the process of fertilizing egg cells and sperm together outside the womb or uterus, and performing the treatment “in vitro” or by placing the eggs and sperm in a Petri dish or test tube. Eggs are collected from the woman’s ovary via the vagina. The partner’s sperm is placed with the eggs in a culture dish in a lab. The embryos (fertilized eggs) are watched carefully for a few days. Then, with the use of a small tube, normally one to three embryos are placed into the uterus with the hope of having a successful pregnancy. If there are extra embryos, these can be kept frozen for later.
Individuals or parents often choose this method of fertility treatment when tubal reversal is not an option, or they are unable to conceive naturally. Additionally, it could be of benefit if the couple wishes to have multiple births. Chances of becoming pregnant can be between 35 to 50 percent. If the IVF treatment is unsuccessful, a repeat IVF may be necessary which could be costly. If a tubal reversal surgery is not possible, IVF treatment may be the next best option for suitable candidates.
2. Surrogate Pregnancy
If a pregnancy is impossible or risky, a couple may decide to arrange for a surrogate pregnancy. A surrogacy is done when a woman signs a contract to have a pregnancy and deliver a child for a third party, such as maybe a couple. When residents in the United States are considering surrogacy, it is important to check with the laws of the state of residency, as the laws are continuously changing and being updated and vary from state to state. Some states have no law regarding it, and certain states penalize paid surrogacy. Others recognize it.
3. Adoption
The practice of placing a child or children under 18 years of age with another parent or parents other than the birth parents is considered an adoption. Adoption may be an option for a woman or a man, or couples unable to have a child naturally. In the United States, adoption agencies may be government funded agencies, private adoptions or non-profit agencies. Government funded agencies normally have little costs. An adoption in the United States may cost nothing at all to maybe $14,000. In Canada, the Adoption Council of Canada (ACC) is the umbrella organization for adoption. This Ottawa-based organization is nationally based and non-profit. It lists non-government and government helpful sites in Canada and abroad. International adoption is when the individual or couple adopts a child or children that were born in another country. Different countries have different rules for adoption. Some do not allow it at all. Other countries such as Korea and China have set rules in place.
IVF (in vitro fertilization), surrogacy and adoption, are all alternatives to tubal reversal surgery. Discuss all of the particulars with a healthcare professional and find as much information as possible before making a decision on a fertility treatment.
