Essure

The Essure procedure is a sterilization procedure for women that is performed by an Essure trained doctor. Unlike tubal ligation, there are no incisions. Instead, micro-inserts are passed through the body's natural pathways (vagina, cervix, and uterus) and placed into your fallopian tubes.

During the first 3 months following the procedure, your body and the micro-inserts work together to form a tissue barrier that prevents sperm from reaching the egg. During this period, you will need to use another form of birth control.

After 3 months, your doctor will perform a special type of x-ray test called an HSG to confirm that your tubes are completely blocked and you can rely on the Essure micro-inserts for birth control.

Safety and Effectiveness

  • In two clinical studies of more than 700 women, there were no life-threatening complications from the procedure.
  • The first year effectiveness of Essure is more than 99%.
  • 88% of women rated their tolerance of the procedure as "good" to "excellent".
  • 99% of women who had Essure for six months or more rated their comfort with Essure as "good" to "excellent."

As with a vasectomy, there is a minimum three-month waiting period after the procedure, during which you must use another form of birth control to prevent pregnancy.

For more details on Essure click here.