Patients need to be more aware of the fertile possibilities of tubal reversal before going for a tubal reversal.  The factors that go into whether a tubal reversal is right for you are:

1. Age:  Better if you are less than 40.  Analysis of the fertility results demonstrated that age was the most significant predictive factor.  This directly links to ovulation. Decide about a tubal reversal at the right time.  There is a sharp turn down in fertility that starts to occur approximately at the age of 36 in women.  Even so, the chances of pregnancy stay good until women reaches 40.  If a woman is beyond the age of 43, the chances of producing eggs in good health can be much lower.

1. Type of ligation: As there are many types and methods of performing bilateral tubal ligation (ie by rings, clips, fulguration, Parkland, Pomeroy, Falope ring, coagulation, and Irving), the damage to the tubes may differ from one patient to another. If the tubal ligation is performed without excessive damage to the tubes, nearly all types of tubal ligations can be reversed with a tubal reversal procedure. To ensure patency, after tubal reversal a colored dye is used to examine the patency of the fallopian tubes.

1. Blockage site on the tube.  HysteroSalpigoGram (HSG) is the test that allows Dr. Morice to better evaluate the blockage site on the tubes in the prospective patient for tubal reversal, and to get a better idea of how much proximal tubal length is available for a tubal reversal or reanastomosis.   If the ligation method caused excessive scar tissue on the blockage site, this could minimize the potential of fertility later.  The amount of healthy tube remaining is extremely important when considering a tubal reversal to regain fertility.

1. Hormone levels:  Checking the hormone levels is an excellent indicator of fertility and must be considered for all patients over the age of 30 before a tubal reversal.  This includes a day 2-4 FSH level and estradiol level.

1. Normal uterus: All patients undergoing a tubal reversal should have an ultrasound report prior to the procedure. Dr. Morice performs this as part of the routine work-up and this is included in the price of the tubal reversal procedure.

1. Some other factors:  There are other factors that provide good predictive value for success with tubal reversal. These include your general health, obstetrical history, partner’s health, social habits such as smoking and drinking, and frequency of intercourse.