Tubal Reversal Surgery Is Possible After The Essure Tubal Ligation Procedure

Essure is a permanent birth control device that has recently become available as an alternative to traditional tubal ligation methods. The spring-like device is inserted through the uterine cavity into the tubal openings using a hysteroscope. Because of the scar formation, it cannot be pulled out of the tube. It is advertised by the manufacturer as a permanent method of birth control. In this respect, it is similar to other tubal ligation methods that are considered by most doctors to be permanent.

Dr. Gary Berger of Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center has successfully repaired the tubes following an Essure procedure. Dr. Berger accomplished this by cutting the Essure device out of the uterine muscle and implanting the remaining fallopian tube into the uterine cavity through a new opening in the uterus in a procedure called tubouterine implantation. The reason Dr. Berger removed the device was that part of the metal spring projects into the uterine cavity. If a pregnancy were to occur with the device in place, this could be harmful to the pregnancy.

To our knowledge, Dr. Berger is the only surgeon that has performed a tubal reversal surgery to reverse the Essure ligation method.

Read Dr. Berger's Blog on Reversing Tubal Essure

Pregnancy Following Tubal Reversal Surgery

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(Tubal Reversal News - April 15th 2008) Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center reports pregnancies as soon as a month after tubal reversal surgery as well as a year or more after surgery.

Tubal reversal surgery enables women to conceive naturally and has a higher pregnancy rate and a higher birth rate than IVF. For most women desiring another child after tubal sterilization, tubal reversal is the best treatment. Most people are not aware that tubal ligation - usually considered a permanent method of birth control - can be reversed through low cost, one hour outpatient surgery. Even many doctors think mistakenly that treatment by in vitro fertilization (IVF) is needed for women who want another baby after having a tubal ligation. Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center reports pregnancies as soon as a month after tubal reversal surgery as well as a year or more after surgery. The results from a study that Dr. Berger conducted demonstrates clearly that tubal reversal is more successful than IVF for most women wanting their fertility restored after having their tubes tied.

This is from the Tubal Reversal Message Board.
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Posted by Pennylane (Member # 12121) on March 14, 2008 12:45 PM:

I am currently 32 years old and I'm scheduling my reversal for this July and I'll be 33. I was just wondering if there was anyone out there who is my age and had TR with a pregnancy right away?
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Posted by Sally, RN (Member # 7389) on March 14, 2008 02:23 PM:

Pennylane--I am sure there are many women who are your age, had their TR and became pregnant right away. I hope they will chime in to let you know. We will look forward to meeting you in July.
Sally,RN
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Posted by mom4ever (Member # 11204) on March 14, 2008 03:08 PM:

Hi Pennylane - I had my reversal last July and I am 33 years old. I also became pregnant the same month and am now expecting my son in the next couple of weeks!

Good luck to you.
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Posted by mamasoup8 (Member # 11212) on March 14, 2008 05:52 PM:

Hi Pennylane, I'm 34 years old, had my surgery in November, and am now due in October. Good luck!
-Traci
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Posted by Pennylane (Member # 12121) on March 14, 2008 10:15 PM:

Thank you for your replies, it really makes me feel good! I am hopefull that I will get pregnant right away. Please keep your fingers crossed for me.
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Posted by debjim (Member # 8607) on March 15, 2008 07:19 AM:

I am 36 had mine in 2006. Had Tr baby #1 at 35 just found out we are expecting #2, I will be 37 when he/she is born.
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Posted by Raddmd (Member # 11476) on March 15, 2008 08:38 AM:

Pennylane,
I had my TR 8/27/07 and I was 36,I am now 37.I had my TL 12/19/91.Good luck to you,you will love Dr Berger and his staff!They are wonderful!

Donna

DH 33
DD 18
DS 17
DS 16
18
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Posted by Crecia (Member # 6023) on March 15, 2008 10:36 PM:

I was 32 when I had my TR last year on 4/10/07 and became pregnant in June and found out I was pregnant with my son on my 33rd birthday in July. Just gave birth to my son on 3/12/08. Hope this help.

Crecia
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Posted by shoegirl (Member # 9481) on March 16, 2008 01:29 PM:

Pennylane: I was 32 when I had my TR, I got pg 4 months later. I was 33 when I had my son. I got pg again when he was 4 months old only to mc at 14 weeks. Us 30 somethings arent shriveled up yet!! Good Luck to you!
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Posted by busymom4 (Member # 12267) on April 08, 2008 10:52 AM:

Pennylane,
I am 33 and considering TR. It is encouraging to here everyone's experience with positvie pregnancies. Did any of you have ectopics or mis. before you got pregnant? The odds seem very high? I have never had any trouble getting pregnant but am scared about losing a baby.
Thanks
Tammy
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Posted by HopesAndDreams (Member # 11754) on April 08, 2008 11:37 AM:

Hi Tammy,
I just wanted to let you know that I too am 33 and I go for my TR on Friday. I will be 34 in July. My first pregnancy when I was 19 was an ectopic. It was tucked away in the tube and I had to have "hip to hip" surgery to have it removed. My OB/GYN did an excellent job and saved the tube and it healed just fine. But to answer your question, having a TR only slightly increases your risk of EP. I was a very healthy 19 year old girl and still ended up with an EP. You will find that it "seems" like there is an increase in MC on here because women are on here looking for support during their hard times. Many, many go on to have full term births. Stats show that the average woman has miscarriages that go undetected because the average woman does not test until she has missed AF. After TR women test earlier to avoid a ruptured EP. Sorry so long, but I hope this helps...
Dawn
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Posted by PaulnJenn (Member # 10984) on April 08, 2008 12:41 PM:

Here are the stats on on going births, ectopic and m/c.....

http://news.tubal-reversal.net/pregnancy-study-2007-pregnancy_outcomes.htm

Jenn
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Posted by PaulnJenn (Member # 10984) on April 08, 2008 12:50 PM:

I had my TR done in November of 07. I am 34. I have NEVER had any complications before TL. Never had a MC or ectopic. Since November, I have had two losses.

I have said it many times that I do not regret my TR. The chance is there to have another baby but most important to give my DH his first child. I am not sure why I had the losses. Sometimes I chalk it up to being older than 18. Other times, the early testing. Getting TR is a very personal decision and it is a very difficult journey once down this path. I do know that I have hope that my difficult journey will be rewarded eventually.

Good Luck to you all!
Jenn
TR-11/19/07
Metho-01/14/08
Chemical-03/23/08
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Posted by ojzmom (Member # 12208) on April 13, 2008 09:59 AM:

Pennylane I wonder the same thing. I just had my TR done 4/1/08 and am 32yrs old. My tube lenghts are short. 3.0, 3.75 and I am hoping I get pregnant right away. I mean the short tubes scares me and the longer it takes the older I get!
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Posted by sillypuddha (Member # 11649) on April 13, 2008 01:33 PM:

Pennylane--I just wanted to say congrats on your upcoming TR. I can't say enough wonderful things about Dr. B and his amazing staff!! The whole TR experience was incredible. I was so nervous, but everyone at CH are so great! I am 32 now, will be 33 in July. I had my TR on 11/29/07 (R 3.5, L 5.0), got my first BFP on 1/18/08, and am currently 16 weeks today, and due on 9/28/08! It is all so surreal, and such a miracle to me. The pregnancy is going great--had a few rough spots in the beginning, but all is wonderful now. Good luck to you, and rest assured that you are in the best of care! Lots of sticky babydust to you! BTW--the recovery is pretty quick, and no more PTLS symptoms for me instantly!!
Krys
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Posted by Rhonda Brown, RN (Member # 9485) on April 13, 2008 08:18 PM:

Dear Pennylane,
As you can see many different women have many different stories to offer with all different types of situation. This message board offers lots of support and information to women. The staff at Dr. Berger's office is available to answer any questions that you have. We also have lots of information on the website in regards to what to expect before, during and after surgery. There is also information on pregnancy statistics based on age, type of ligation and tubal length remaining after surgery. Please let me know if you have any other questions or if I can assist you with anything. I look forward to meeting you in July.
Rhonda

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Posted by Karen M (Member # 11869) on April 14, 2008 02:51 PM:

Hi Penny, although I am a little bit younger I am 27 and I had my tubal reversal surgery in January and became pregnant on my 2nd cycle in March. I was nervous and scared as well, but the surgery went very well and recovery is not bad at all. You will be in the best hands possible when you are at Chapil Hill, and you will have the most support you could ever imagine through this journey of yours. I know one thing that helped me in becoming pregnant so fast is I bought the ClearBlue Easy fertility monitor. It is a bit pricey, and you can get it on Ebay for a fraction of the cost, but its well worth it.
Best wishes and good luck!!!

Karen M
TL 2002
TR Jan 10, 2008
EDD December 10, 2008

What To Expect Following Tubal Reversal Surgery

A member of the Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center message board posts that she had tubal reversal surgery with Dr. Berger 1/31/08 and she is questioning what she should expect now? Other message board members and Chapel Hill staff members offer their stories and support. Many patients often wonder what is next after tubal reversal surgery? The message board offers an avenue of support and information for patients. Dr. Berger's staff also provides follow up after surgery and they are available 24/7 for questions. The next step for most patients after surgery is to begin trying to conceive.

Dr. Berger recommends that patients use ovulation predictor kits to help determine the most fertile time n their cycle. This allows patients to be n tune with what is going on with their body and hopefully giving them information on the best time for them to try and conceive.


This is topic New TR Patients from 1/31/08 in forum New Message Board Members at Tubal Reversal Message Board.

Posted by MOM2B (Member # 12074) on February 19, 2008 07:13 PM:

Hi! I had my TR 1/31/08 and was wondering if anyone could give the ups on what to expect from this point on

Posted by christbride (Member # 10665) on February 19, 2008 07:23 PM:

Hello, mom2b. come and join the other jan08 girls. have you had a full cycle since your tr? different people have different experiences as far as pain. the 2ww is the worse when you start to ttc.

Posted by MOM2B (Member # 12074) on February 21, 2008 06:56 PM:

Yes AF started a day before valentines day BUMMER, and not only that it seems that it lasted forever. now im waiting to O which is suppose to be 14 days after my last af

Posted by christbride (Member # 10665) on February 22, 2008 09:54 AM:

You are on cd 10. so i will update you on our january 08 girls thread. you should come in an join us. these are all of the ladies that had their tr in the month of jan.

Posted by ricshe08 (Member # 12123) on March 02, 2008 09:46 AM:

Hi! I had my tr on 1/18/08, and I have been following the forum since then. I having a hard time understanding all of the abbreviations, but will try the best I can.

Posted by Rhonda Brown, RN (Member # 9485) on March 02, 2008 10:01 AM:

Dear MOM2B,
I know that you will find lots of support here on the board. I hope that you will use your OPK to help to determine your most fertile time of the cycle. I wish you much success in cycles to come. Let us know how things go for you.
Rhonda

Posted by ricshe08 (Member # 12123) on March 02, 2008 01:23 PM:

Can anyone tell me if the on line O calculation are accurate. If so, I am approx 8DPO and questioning when should I take HPT?

Posted by berta8133 (Member # 11188) on March 02, 2008 05:18 PM:

Rics....12 dpo would be a good time to use hpt. anything before may lead to frustration because it is early for most to see the bfp, and will usually get the bfn.

Posted by ricshe08 (Member # 12123) on March 02, 2008 06:33 PM:

Thanks, berta for responding to my concern. I am very anxious, but it is worth the wait.

Posted by christbride (Member # 10665) on March 02, 2008 08:22 PM:

hi richs,
as a jan 08 girl you should join us on the jan 08 girls thread. welcome to the board. i concur with berth with the 12dpo, unless you have those internet cheapes and have a lot of sticks to test on. they do have somethat detect hcg as low as 10 hcg.

Posted by ricshe08 (Member # 12123) on March 02, 2008 10:19 PM:

Thanks christbride, this is going to be a wonderful experience to share with the you guys. Thanks for you invitation and support.

More Information on What to Expect After a Tubal Reversal

Dr. Monteith is Joining Dr. Berger as a Tubal Reversal Surgeon

Dr. Monteith is joining Dr. Berger as a tubal reversal surgeon at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center. Dr. Charles Monteith graduated Summa Cum Laude from Xavier University and received his Medical Degree from the University of California at San Francisco. Following a Howard Hughes Research Fellowship in molecular biology, he completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2001. Since then he has been a Clinical Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of North Carolina Medical School. Dr. Monteith is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology and has extensive experience in laparoscopic surgery and high risk obstetrics.

Explaining his decision to join Dr. Berger in practice, Dr. Monteith says, “My interest in tubal ligation reversal comes from my love of outpatient surgery and the desire to learn skills which are becoming a dying art. My hope is to be able to continue to practice tubal reversal surgery and to keep it as an option for patients who have had prior tubal ligation and desire to become pregnant.”

Like all of Dr. Berger's staff Dr. Monteith can be contacted via the tubal reversal message board. Here you can read Dr. Monteith's most recent posts

As this thread from the Tubal Reversal Message Board shows Dr. Monteith as well as being an excellent surgeon also has quite a sense of humor:

Posted by Dr. Monteith (Member # 11996) on February 04, 2008 09:00 AM:

I answered your questions under the threads of scheduling and posting with Dr. Montieth

Posted by sweeet_mommie (Member # 11471) on February 04, 2008 06:50 PM:

Dr.Monteith thank you so much for responding to my questions and your responces were very helpful. We are very happy to know that there is hope for us. We never thought that we would want another child considering we have 5, 4boys 11,10,8 and 6 and 1girl 6. We were very scared when they told us twins and that is why we had my tubes tied, well that was a mistakeand at the time my Doctor didnt think it was a good idea but went along with it considering I was only 23 years old in 2001. Tell me something how likely (is it if there are twins on both sides of the family), are we likely to have twins again? Thank you for you help and another thing the most thing I am afaid of is getting surgery, in 2006 when I lost my right tube I was so scared of be put to sleep. any suggestions?
thanks again
luquesua

I am considering getting my TR maybe late spring.

Posted by Dr. Monteith (Member # 11996) on February 04, 2008 09:08 PM:

Twins do run higher in some races of people. Certain tribes from Africa have very high twin rates- can be as high as 1 in 50 pregnancies. In general, the chances of having a twin pregnancy is about 1 out of 200 pregnancies.

If you and your husband are Nigerian then I would be worried you would have a higher chance of a twin pregnancy- for the most part I have not been impressed that twin rates have been higher when patients come to me in the USA and say twins run in both families. I would say your risk of twin pregnancy would be about 1 out fo 200. If you have to take clomid about 10 out of 200 and if you have IVF about 1 out of 3!

General anesthesia is very safe when it is done in a low risk patient in a controlled situation. The only problems I have seen is in emergency surgery when everyone is rushing and the patient is high risk- say 300lbs, poor airway, heart disease, trauma, etc.

Posted by sweeet_mommie (Member # 11471) on February 05, 2008 05:46 PM:

Dr.Monteith another question I have is the TR is it done vaginal? How long after surgery can we try to conceive?

Posted by Dr. Monteith (Member # 11996) on February 05, 2008 11:04 PM:

The reversal is done through a small incision- about 4 inches- just above your pubic hair line. We ask that you wait until you leave the office before you try to conceive! (the real answer is when you feel up to it- about 2-4 weeks).

Posted by mommyof4wantingmore (Member # 11914) on February 06, 2008 04:06 AM:

What a great sense of humor Dr. Monteith! I read almost all of the posts on here, but that has to be the best reply of the day!! LOL Sorry if I butted in on the thread but that was GREAT!!
-Donielle

DH-34
Me-32
DS-14
DD-6
DS-5 (soon)
DS-2
TL-7/05
TR-Goal is Summer 2008!

Posted by sweeet_mommie (Member # 11471) on February 06, 2008 07:10 AM:

thanks Dr. that information was very helpful, we will be scheduling my appointment for April wil you be there assisting Dr. Berger?

Posted by in-Gods-hands (Member # 11795) on February 06, 2008 08:17 AM:

I am with Donielle that was the best one yet. I liked that. Miranda

More Information on Dr. Monteith

The Importance of Early Pregnancy Monitoring

The importance of early pregnancy monitoring cannot be stressed enough. All women have a chance of ectopic pregnancy, but after tubal reversal surgery, the chance is slightly higher. For this reason, Dr. Berger recommends all patients at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center work closely with their home physicians to follow the course of pregnancy as soon as conception is detected. Once a tubal reversal patients gets a positive pregnancy test, she should get her first HCG blood level drawn. After this, her doctor should be drawing the blood for HCG at least twice week. When the HCG level reaches 1500, the pregnancy can be detected by ultrasound. A vaginal ultrasound should be performed to determine the location of the implantation. This greatly reduces the chance of tubal rupture should the pregnancy prove to be ectopic. Dr. Berger should be notified as soon as you are pregnant so that he can ensure you are receiving timely early pregnancy care.

The following is from the Tubal Reversal Message Board:

Posted by Kristy Isett (Member # 8861) on February 05, 2008 05:58 PM:

Hi Dr B, I just found out on 1/24/08 that I was PG again after taking 200 mg clomid. My LMP was on 12/30/05 Since then, I've had 5 hcg betas drawn. My concern is the last two I had.
My first 3 betas were
1/24/08= 19.45 Progesterone= 27.1
1/26/08= 48.64
1/28/08= 104.22
Thursday 01/31/08
hCG was 371 progesterone was 45.2 (on suppositories)
Monday 02/04/2008
hCG was 576Why the small rise?? I mean I figured it should have been closer to the 1400-1500 level.
My blood tests were done at two different labs, but I honestly don't think that there would be that much of a difference between them. I go again tomorrow for another beta.
I had an internal exam yesterday 2/4/08 and dr said there was no sign of bleeding, cervix was closed and long. He felt my uterus and said it felt normal. I then went for a vaginal u/s and the tech was unable to see anything at that point. Dr called me and told me that there was a bit of free fluid??? in my uterus but not enough to have him concerned at this point. I don't know what to think at this point. Thanks in advance!
Kris
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Posted by lori4 (Member # 11661) on February 05, 2008 06:48 PM:

Kristy, Can't answer any of your questions, but I'm praying for you girl
Lori
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Posted by Gary S Berger MD (Member # 3) on February 05, 2008 06:58 PM:

Hi Kris -Using our HCG doubling time calculator, I entered your first HCG level of 19 and the last one of 576 taken 11 days apart. The calculator shows a doubling time of 53.6 hours, or doubling every 1.36 days. This is normal. At this rate, your HCG level should reach 1500 by Friday or Saturday, and when it does, a vaginal US exam should be performed to look for the gestational sac.
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Posted by Kristy Isett (Member # 8861) on February 05, 2008 07:24 PM:

Thanks Dr. Berger, but shouldn't I be concerned with the fact that it didn't double from Thursday 1/31/08 to Monday 02/04/08??? The doubling rate from those two beta's is like every 6.30 days or every 111 hours I think.Thanks again!
Kris
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Posted by Noelle DiBernardo (Member # 8906) on February 05, 2008 10:47 PM:

Kris,
Did you have another draw today, (Tuesday)If you see this...I emailed you the information you asked for...sorry it took so long!noelle
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Posted by Gary S Berger MD (Member # 3) on February 06, 2008 04:56 AM:

Kristy - Let's wait and see what your next HCG level is.
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Posted by Kristy Isett (Member # 8861) on February 06, 2008 08:23 AM:

Dr. Berger, thanks. I go this morning for my next draw. I know it'll tell me more. I'll let you know.
Noelle~ Yeah I got your email, thanks so much my computer died yesterday, I couldn't get on for anything all day until after DH got home from work to fix it!Love,
~Kris~
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Posted by jami (Member # 9521) on February 06, 2008 08:33 AM:

kris, i love you and your little bean(s)!!! i'm waiting to see what today's labs say....
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Posted by Kristy Isett (Member # 8861) on February 06, 2008 12:05 PM:

Dr B. Ok, today my levels are 746.... what do you think is going on??I'm so confused, I thought these hCG levels were to double every 2-3 days....mine are totally not doing that.I'm so worried that this is another ectopic and I'm going to lose my only tube I have left.I'll check back later to see what you think.
Thanks again,
Kris
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Posted by mamasoup8 (Member # 11212) on February 06, 2008 12:19 PM:

Krys- I don't have any answers for you, just wanted you to know you and your lil bean are in my prayers!-Traci
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Posted by Meridith4321 (Member # 11469) on February 06, 2008 12:29 PM:

Kristy - I would call and try to get an ultrasound - I know 700 is too small to see a sac but sometimes they can see a bulge in the tube or fluid in the uterus. There are other symptoms!!! maybe I would go to the ER. One tube is just too precious to lose, not to even mention that you life is at risk here. Does your Dr. know the protocol? I have heard to tubes bursting at 700 - just to be on the safe side I would try to get an ultrasound - fake pain if you have to!!!! Talk to Berta - I know she is on some of the lists and recently posted about losses on the main page - she can tell you what her number was when her tube burst.Good luck - we are all pulling for you!!!
Meridith
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Posted by Noelle DiBernardo (Member # 8906) on February 06, 2008 01:01 PM:

I am thinking of you Kris.
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Posted by berta8133 (Member # 11188) on February 06, 2008 01:12 PM:

Kristy....Personally if it were me...I would go to the ER. It could be several things. Some need for concern, others - everything could be just fine.Numbers sometimes become stagnet (for lack of a better word)...even though raising a bit...)I think for piece of mind....get to ER for an u/s, tell them you are high risk for e/p due to TR and tell them your last number, and also that you are having pain..tell them- it's kinda tender (pick a side) and that the pain feels like it comes from the back and moves to the front.They should be able to see 'something'...whether a shadow, fluid or swollen tube...etc etc... if they can't see anything yet...then all could be fine and nothing to worry over.There was a sister on our july thread....she no longer posts, but her number never got higher than like 300, and become stagnet, dr did nothing, and she ended up rupturing and losing the tube.My numbers were higher at time of rupture.....a week before rupture they were about 6700 or so... HOWEVER there are those that rupture with a small number due to the tube becoming swollen etc etc....Get it checked. Better safe than sorry down the road. I'd rather worry about something and it turn out to be nothing, than not to worry at all and it become something that can't be fixed.Thoughts are with you and I surely do hope all is okay. Just get it checked--ok??Berta
TR 7/23/07
E/P 0/25/07
M/C 12/8/07TTC our little Z
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Posted by pumpkin_powers (Member # 9198) on February 06, 2008 01:36 PM:

Krys,
Please go to the ER. You're right that those numbers aren't doubling right and it may be just a slow starter or possibly an ectopic. It's better to be safe than to lose your only tube. I went through two ectopics last year, and with the second my numbers were right around doubling for the first couple draws then they started slowing down like yours are doing. With that pregnancy the baby ended up implanted near my bladder and if I hadn't had early monitoring it would definitely have been life threatening. Please take care, and I'll be saying prayers for you and your little bean.Lots of Love
Staci
TR 3-7-06
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Posted by Gary S Berger MD (Member # 3) on February 06, 2008 04:12 PM:

Kristy - I agree that based on today's result your HCG rise is no longer rising normally. When HCG ceases to double within 3 days on more than one occasion, I recommend ending the pregnancy with Methotrexate and continuing to follow the serum HCG until it is back to non-pregnant levels (less than 10). At your current HCG level, it is still too early for an ultrasound examination to be diagnostic about whether it is in the uterus or outside of the uterus. But when a pregnancy is no longer progressing normally, it should not be continued.
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Posted by berta8133 (Member # 11188) on February 06, 2008 04:54 PM:

Kristy, please let us know how you are doing.Berta
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Posted by Melissa In NC (Member # 8796) on February 06, 2008 11:06 PM:

Kris- just wanted to let you know that i am thinking about you & praying
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Posted by brlracer (Member # 11897) on February 07, 2008 12:56 PM:

Any news on Kris? I will keep you in my prayers!
Trish
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Posted by Kristy Isett (Member # 8861) on February 07, 2008 02:58 PM:

Dr. Berger~ I just wanted to update you on what happened, I did in fact have an ectopic. There was a 4.7 CM buldge in my tube, the Dr told me that she would do everything possible to save my tube, but after surgery she told me that there was no way to save it even though it wasn't ruptured, she felt that the tube itself was too "stretched out" she said it looked unhealthy. So, that ends my journey in TTC for now, hopefully we'll find a way to do IVF sometime in the future. Heck, I'm not getting any younger! LOL! Thanks for all of the advice and thanks for everything!Kris
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Posted by brlracer (Member # 11897) on February 07, 2008 03:10 PM:

Kris, I am so sorry for this, I just don't know what to say
Trish K.
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Posted by Amy1234 (Member # 5192) on February 07, 2008 03:17 PM:

I am very, very sorry Kris!
Amy
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Posted by lori4 (Member # 11661) on February 07, 2008 04:45 PM:

Kris, that sucks! I was really pulling for you girl. I'll keep you in my prayers. I hope one day God blesses you with a baby if it is in his plan for you.
Lori
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Posted by JulesnKev (Member # 7375) on February 07, 2008 05:54 PM:

Kris, I am so sorry you are having to go through this heart rending experience. You mentioned IVF, so when you are ready to talk about it you can e-mail me at trulyjulee1967@msn dot com. I have some information you may find interesting. Take time to heal and take care of yourself.
Hugs,
Julia
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Posted by pumpkin_powers (Member # 9198) on February 07, 2008 05:55 PM:

Kris, I'm so sorry that this has happened. Please take care of yourself. This part of the journey is so hard. I hope that you are able to persue IVF in the future. I ended my ttc journey this dec after my second ectopic within a 6month period. I just couldn't take it anymore emotionally or physically. I hope that things get back to normal for you quickly. Please take care.
Lots of Love
Staci
TR3-7-06
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Posted by berta8133 (Member # 11188) on February 07, 2008 06:03 PM:

Oh Krys....I'm soooo very sorry this has happened. Thoughts are with you definitely! I pray you will be successful in your IVF journey.Good luck always,
Berta

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) in Tubal Reversal Patients

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) can cause ovulation disorders and is more common among overweight women. PCOS is a common disorder and is seen among women undergoing tubal reversal surgery at the same frequency as among women in the general population. For maximizing fertility, PCOS should be treated medically for women after a tubal reversal procedure as indicated.

The following is the topic PCOS in forum Preparing for Tubal Reversal at Tubal Reversal Message Board.

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Posted by Patiently waiting (Member # 11777) on January 04, 2008 09:40 AM: Hi everyone...I was just wondering if anyone else has this problem since their TL. I was just diagnosed with this after an ultrasound from my obgyn. I had my TL in 12/04 and I have gained about 50 pounds and now I have this! Im crampy all the time and I dont cycle at all (its been over 7 mths)....will this stop me from getting a TR you think? My dr says its like a cycle...not ovulating is causing the cysts and the cysts are causing me not to ovulate...I dont know much on this subject so if someone could help me on this, that would be wonderful. The only advice my dr gave is for me to lose weight and to not be so stressed!

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Posted by Patiently waiting (Member # 11777) on January 04, 2008 09:40 AM: I meant PCOS...sorry

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Posted by berta8133 (Member # 11188) on January 04, 2008 09:58 AM: Patiently...you can change the Topic Title by clicking on the little piece of paper with the pencil right above your first post...since you started the topic you can change the title, if done quickly, as there is a time limit for all 'edits'. I personally can't contribute any experience with this... hopefully someone will chime in. Good luck. Berta

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Posted by Patiently waiting (Member # 11777) on January 04, 2008 11:21 AM: Thanx, I didn't know that and I felt foolish for not spellind it right...

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Posted by berta8133 (Member # 11188) on January 04, 2008 11:41 AM: LOL...it happens!!

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Posted by pam mills (Member # 617) on January 04, 2008 02:00 PM: There are varying degrees of Polycystic Ovarian Disease. Some patients have somewhat polycystic looking ovaries, but they are still ovulatory. These patients also do not exhibit the symptoms of true polycystic ovarian disorder. PCOS is an endocrine disorder and a potential cause for infertility. Please read this article from the Mayo Clinic. It describes in good detail the varying degrees of this illness. Feel free to call if you have any further questions. Pam Mills, CRNA

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Posted by Patiently waiting (Member # 11777) on January 04, 2008 05:53 PM: OK, I might have to correct myself....I have cysts on my ovaries and I think they said the left one was a little larger than the right....I guess what I want to know is will this affect me from having a TR?

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PTLS Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome

Posted on the Tubal Reversal Message Board by a potential patient of Dr. Berger at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center:

I believe I am a victim ot PTLS in forum New Message Board Members at Tubal Reversal Message Board
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Posted by Gialisa40 (Member # 8182) on May 29, 2005 09:58 AM :
I have had terrible PTLS symptoms that have only gotten worse. I was wondering does it matter how long you have had your tubal, can you still get it reversed? Will reversal help at any age? What if you are close to menopause? My doctor told me what he was doing couldn't be reversed, it was cut and burned. Is that true?
I appreciate any help or information anyone has to offer.
Thanks, Gialisa40
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Posted by Digger (Member # 7585) on May 29, 2005 11:00 AM :
The time length that you had your TL doesn't matter.My Dr told me mine couldn't be reversed either but Dr B DID reverse it.At times it the tube is too short or severely damaged it may not be reversed.Dr B will request your records from the TL to determine that and if you don't have access to those recors(which I didn't)he can do laproscopy to look before he does the TR.I wish you the best of luck!
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Posted by rkandlm (Member # 6776) on May 29, 2005 11:01 AM :
Gilalisa, My symptoms got worse and worse! It does not matter, from what I have heard, how long since your TL. Dr. B. can fix almost everything! Mine were cut and burned, and I still came out with 5.5 & 6 cm. I had my TR on 11-5-04, and I am now 22W 3D pregnan. After the TR, and before my BFP, all my symptoms went away. All I know for sure is how I went back to normal, and felt a ton better! Bonus.....I now get to be a mom again!YEA!
Hope this helps some, Lisa
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Posted by Rachel RN (Member # 1386) on May 29, 2005 12:36 PM :
Dear Gialisa, I'm sorry you have been having so much trouble with PTLS. Although most patients come to Dr. Berger for TR because they want more children, many women report either significant or total relief from PTLS symptoms following TR surgery. Many have reported reduction in cramping, bleeding, and number of days their periods last, as well as fewer mood swings and other problems. To my knowledge, there is not much data on this (maybe because so many doctors are still denying the existence of PTLS) but Dr. Berger is collecting these reports. Dr. Berger is able to repair the tubes in at least 95% of cases. Your age and length of time since TL are not factors in a successful repair (pregnancy rates, of course, ARE related to age). I suggest that you obtain a copy of the operative report from your TL procedure (from the surgeon who performed it, or the hospital where you had it done) and send it to Dr. Berger. He'll review it and a nurse will call you within a day or so to discuss everything. I hope to be taking care of you in the Recovery Room soon! Rachel Heller, RN
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Posted by tfaith (Member # 8133) on May 30, 2005 05:51 PM :
Gialisa,
You are not alone. I am a 44 year old woman with PTLS symptoms and broke down and cried when I found this site a week ago. No one believed me before. I had been told the only way I could find relief was to have a hysterectomy. My fear of only trading symptoms kept me from doing it. My reports have already been turned in and now I am waiting to have my FSH levels tested. As long as I am not on the verge of menopause I will be having a TR in the attempt to diminish my PTLS symptoms. I still have regualar cycles so feel confident Dr. B. can help me too. I already feel a heavy weight has been lifted, because now I have hope. You are younger than me and I am pressing on, and so can you. BTW - I had also been told that my tubes were burned but my report did not reflect that, so maybe your tubes weren't either.
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Posted by CL (Member # 6765) on May 31, 2005 11:12 PM :
Gialisa40, I can only tell you that my PTLS has gotten worse and in 9 days, I will be having my TR. I am looking foward to my first AF after that to see what happens. I am looking forward to having more energy and getting rid of the mood swings that have developed in the last month. The mood swings is what pushed my husband into getting my TR immediately. Of course, part of this happened because the good Lord helped us to sell our house to make all of this possible. All I can say, is that the day I found this site and discovered that I wasn't crazy and had a OB/GYN doc say that they call it PMS, not PTLS and walked out on me when I asked her morally and ethically didn't she feel obligated to tell her patients what could happen from a TL.
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Posted by taalah (Member # 8162) on May 31, 2005 11:20 PM :
I thought i was the only one having these symptoms and my gyno recommended me taking everything out and i am only 33 gosh i thought i was tripping out again but i suspected it was hormone related to my tl its like i morphed into a different woman will most of this go away when you have your tr and put your body back the way god intended it
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Posted by CL (Member # 6765) on June 01, 2005 01:03 AM :
taalah, I certainly hope so as I do not want to take birth control pills, prescription medication and have more test run to figure out how to deal with these symptoms. I guess in 9 days when I have the procedure and my body is put back together, I will find out. It certainly will be nice to have energy again instead of sitting around the house because that is all you can do. CL
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Posted by colette catalino (Member # 8184) on June 01, 2005 06:31 AM :
This is the first I've heard of PTLS. Since my TL 2 years ago and the return of my periods year ago I have experienced the worsest mood swings, abdominal pain, nausea and cramping not to mention feeling like I am pregnant every month from the abdominal bloating, breast tenderness, nausea and back cramps. After the third cycle I began to think I have excess scarring from the procedure or an artifact was left behind during the surgery. I want this craziness to end. How common is PTLS and does it continually get worse?? Confused and nutty....
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Posted by Gialisa40 (Member # 8182) on June 01, 2005 07:24 AM :
Yes Taalah,
I agree we should be the way God intended us to be. I kept waiting for my husband to have a vasectomy and he wouldn't, 6 kids later, I said I have to do something. Now with these symptoms I am sorry I did. For women we have a monthly cycle and our whole body undergoes changes constantly, we need our estrogen production. Men don't need to produce sperm, except when you want to conceive, which I think we have enough. My brother had a vasectomy and he had no negative symptoms. I just thought I would show the comparison of how much more we are affected by sterilization then men are.
Gialisa40
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Posted by Gialisa40 (Member # 8182) on June 01, 2005 07:29 AM :
Please CL let us know how you feel after.
Thanks so much for sharing! It is so good to know I am not alone.
Gialisa40
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Posted by mommakat (Member # 8204) on June 02, 2005 02:12 PM :
Hello everyone
I didn't know about ptls until I looked into this sight 3 years ago (wanting to get a reversal so my DH and I could have a baby together). I realized then that was exactly what I was experiancing. Not only did I have terrible mood swings (sometimes rageful)but I never knew when to expect my periods (typically 19-30+ days), which by the way were always very painful the first day. After my tr my cycles became very regular, I don't have the mood swings or even the pain anymore!!!
I had my tl Oct. 26th, 1994 after my youngest daughter was born and my tr on October 20th 2004. I have 3 children from my 1st marriage -ages 10, 12, & 14 and am remarried 1 1/2 years now with hopes of another bundle of joy soon.
-Kathleen
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Posted by tfaith (Member # 8133) on June 02, 2005 04:02 PM :
I wish I had found this site years ago, but am grateful for finding now.

Has anyone who was 40+ gone through the TR and found relief from PTLS? Ironically I found this site while researching pre-menopausal symptoms as my PMS keeps getting worse and I am approaching the age. But two things that have remained constant is that my AF's are still very regular and I still feel ovulation.
Thanks,
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Posted by taalah (Member # 8162) on June 02, 2005 11:11 PM :
congrads cl hope your tr goes well and wish you all the luck. i agree with some now let the men carry the procedures from here on because woman have enough to deal with already with everyday hormone problems.
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Posted by little j (Member # 7744) on June 03, 2005 07:04 PM :
Hellow girls,I'm 27 and I have 3 boys ages6,8,and 9 and I've been wanting to have a TR,How has this exprerience been for those who got it done?
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Posted by CL (Member # 6765) on June 05, 2005 12:14 PM :
Gialisa40, I will be glad to let you know how I am feeling.
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Posted by dephany (Member # 6570) on June 05, 2005 01:26 PM :
is ther anyone on line right now who i can talk to about there surgery send back a reply
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Posted by hopeann (Member # 7733) on June 06, 2005 01:10 PM :
Hey Ladies, I had my TR in January. Each month my cycle has been better. This month it was almost the same as before my TL. My period would be about 2 days with mild cramping, after the TL it would last for about 7 days with nausea and heavy cramping. I used to have a bad headache about a week before I was to start, but I believe my body is working this out because my headache is moving around during the month. I would believe it will deminish as well. I wish doctors would give people the information that ptls is possible. I am greatful to have the opportunity to fix my body and let it work as it is supposed to. Dr. Berger and his staff are the most professional and caring office I have met in any field of health care. Thank you Dr. Berger and Staff for all you do. Hope

More Information on PTLS

Tubal Reversal Procedure Scheduling

Scheduled For Tubal Reversal Procedure In Three Weeks

Having chosen Dr. Gary Berger as her tubal reversal doctor, a member of the Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center Message Board seeks support from other members and shares her feelings of nervousness. Patients and staff provide input on what to expect before and after a tubal reversal procedure and share their own stories of success following surgery with Dr. Berger.

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Posted by Steffp (Member # 11579) October 04, 2007 11:14 AM:

I committed to the TR Procedure two days ago and it is happening in 3 weeks.. I am a nervous reck!! I am 29 and getting married on Oct 20th. This is the honeymoon. I hope thinks go good but I guess I can use someone who understands. Can anyone help?

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Posted by wweigand (Member # 11323) October 04, 2007 11:27 AM:

Steff, everything will be fine! You will be sore for your honeymoon tho. But hopefully well worth it. Good luck and long, healthy tubes!!! Dont be nervous. I was also a nervous wreck but the staff at CH are WONDERFUL!! They really make you feel welcome. So much so, that I told my husband, I want to move to NC. I said if everyone is as nice as the staff at CH, I would love to move down there. Wendy

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Posted by Tanya from VA (Member # 9507) October 04, 2007 11:36 AM:

Welcome to CH and hopefully the best life-changing experience you will have. This is a great place for support and you will find everyone here really understands.

Try to relax - the surgury isn't very hard as far as recovery. Like Wendy said - your going to be sore for several days but it's very managable and you will feel better everyday. The CH staff is just awesome and they will answer your questions and assist in anyway they can.

The journey ttc can be filled with ups and downs. Try to pick up a copy of Taking Charge of Your Fertility and do some reading. Most ladies here have never had any issues ttc but after surgury many find ourselves stuggling for longer than we expected. This book is just PACKED with useful information - even if you get a BFP the next month you won't be sorry you picked it up.

Good luck to you! Crossing my fingers for long healthy tubes and a quick BFP for you!!

Tanya
TR 9-7-06
edd 5-21-08

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Posted by Steffp (Member # 11579) October 04, 2007 11:48 AM:

I just regret my past decision so much that I hope this is a success. I just don't want the surgery to be in vain.. They said everything looks positive. Can I really believe them and start hoping this will actually happen?

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Posted by Lori RN (Member # 10610) October 04, 2007 11:57 AM:

Steffp,

We are glad you made the decision to come see Dr. Berger. Here is a website link on What to expect the Day of Surgery. I look forward to meeting you.

Lori RN

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Posted by Luckypj's (Member # 9974) October 04, 2007 12:07 PM:

Steff,

You are in great hands with Dr. Berger and his staff! You are still young so don't worry and enjoy your new marriage (Congratulations by the way!) and your TTC'ing!

Welcome to the message board. There is so much support and friendship here. I don't know what I would do without it!

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Posted by Tanya from VA (Member # 9507) October 04, 2007 12:09 PM:

Steff - I remember feeling the same way but this is going to happen! It feels surreal right now but once you get there and meet the nurses, staff and have your consult with Dr.Berger it won't feel like a dream. With all luck - your life will start a new path that day. You will leave the consult feeling anxious but be assured your in good hands. The nurses in the surgical unit are just AWESOME!!

You may not get a quick pregnancy - it may take a few or many months - there may be bumps along the way and life offers no guarentees but be assured he has changed many lives - including mine. I'm sure more ladies will jump in and tell you their stories.

Best of luck to you!

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Posted by Steffp (Member # 11579) October 04, 2007 12:17 PM:

Thank you so much!! I really hope that we will be celebrating a bfp in the upcoming months. I want to be cautiously optimistic.. But it is hard.. I really want a baby

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Posted by Eric'sGirl (Member # 10652) October 04, 2007 01:32 PM:

I got married oct 21st of last year... will be by Dr. B on the 18th... anniversary trip! for my TR procedure. You are in the best hands possible! Best of luck to you!

What day is your surgery? there is a bunch of us on "The Waiting Room" thread (currently on Part 25) - come join us... I will add you to the list of us waiting!

Chrissy

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Posted by Steffp (Member # 11579) October 04, 2007 01:41 PM:

Thank you so very much..Good luck to you all

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Posted by Jan, RN (Member # 10035) October 04, 2007 02:56 PM:

You are understandably excited and anxious about the upcoming procedure. Anxiety is often due to not knowing- the unknown. Reading on the website, especially what to expect, as Lori suggested might help relieve some anxiety. Please feel free to call with questions. Help us know how we can be helpful to you.

Tubal Reversal Procedure Talking Points

The page Tubal Reversal Procedure Talking Points discusses various issues regarding tubal reversal microsurgery, such as the use of loupes vs microscope, choice of suture material for the fallopian tubes, and the advantages of using a tubal stent. Although some doctors may have different opinions about how tubal reversal surgery is best performed, there is one way to know for certain what works the best and that is by documenting the pregnancy and birth rates after the reversal surgery. Dr. Berger is the only tubal reversal doctor who documents and publishes actual pregnancy and birth statistics based on long term patient follow-up.

Question : How can I know what techniques work best for tubal reversal procedures?

Answer : Some doctors may have different opinions about how tubal reversal surgery is best performed. There is only one way to know what works the best and that is by documenting the pregnancy and birth rates after the reversal surgery. This requires long term patient follow-up. Dr. Berger follows-up with all of his patients, records the outcomes of every reversal procedure, and publishes documented statistics about pregnancy after tubal reversal as well as weekly pregnancy reports for his patients. Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center provides complete and accurate information about the success of tubal reversal.

More Questions and Answers about Tubal Reversal Procedure

North Carolina Facility Specializes in Tubal Reversal Surgery

(CHAPEL HILL, NC) - Dr. Gary S. Berger, M.D., director of Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center, has established the only surgical practice in the country dedicated exclusively to performing tubal ligation reversal surgery. Dr. Berger, one of the pioneers of tubal reversal surgery, is a reproductive surgeon who has spent more than 30 years specializing in outpatient tubal reversal surgery.

Widely recognized as the tubal reversal doctor with the most experience with the tubal reversal procedure, Dr. Berger's patients come from across the United States and abroad to have their fertility restored with his one hour, outpatient, low cost tubal reversal procedure. The microsurgery techniques Dr. Berger pioneered reduce tissue injury, blood loss, post-operative pain, the risk of infection, and recovery time.

Dr. Berger has created a unique environment for women who come to Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center. Since the facility is dedicated to caring for tubal reversal patients only, patients enjoy a high nurse-to-patient ratio with one or two nurses devoted specifically to caring for each patient. All of the nurses are RNs and have advanced certification in cardiac life support (ACLS) and the anesthesiologists are medical doctors (MD's) with board certification in anesthesia. The other women and couples in the facility are there specifically for the same purpose - tubal reversal procedures.

Although tubal reversal may not be right for everyone, a comprehensive study conducted by Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center in 2006 concluded that Dr. Berger is able to repair the fallopian tubes in 98% of women who have come for surgery and over two-thirds of his patients become pregnant within 10 months following surgery. The study report includes 4,025 tubal reversal procedures performed by Dr. Berger between January 2001 and December 2005. It is the largest and most definitive study in existence that provides information on the outcome of tubal reversal surgery.

At the conclusion of the study interval, 69 percent of the women in Dr. Berger's study had reported pregnancies. The pregnancy rate ranged from 82 percent for women under 30 years of age to 41 percent for women 40 years of age and older. The highest pregnancy rate (87 percent) was among women age under 30 after reversal of a previous ring or clip method of sterilization.

"Many people, including doctors, mistakenly believe that tubal ligation surgery is a permanent method of birth control," states Dr. Berger. Tubal reversal surgery - a one-hour outpatient procedure - rejoins the separated segments of fallopian tube so that eggs can become fertilized and travel down the tubes to the uterus, allowing pregnancy to occur naturally."

Julia Smith, RN
(919) 656-8204

Testimonials After Tubal Reversal Procedures from Dr. Berger's Patients

"I had my tubal reversal surgery by Dr. Berger in September, 2002. I have had 2 sons after my tubal reveral so far and have just found out I am expecting another baby in April." Misty R.

"Our Berger baby girl arrived just 10 short months after having the reversal procedure." Geni W.

"I want to announce the arrival of our new baby girl. We are so happy we traveled to Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center have the reversal done. I had the tubal reversal procedure performed September 21, 2006 and we found out we were pregnant the day after Thanksgiving." Elizabeth S.

"Kate just turned one. Turns out we got her an extra special present! Positive HPT today...we are THRILLED." Steph C.

"It will never be lost on me what miracles these little TR boys are. Thank you, Dr. Berger and staff for helping to make our dreams come true." Renee and Jack L.

"We are so grateful to Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center for the great work you do to allow families like ours to follow their hearts and bring a new life into their homes." Jennifer McN.

"My son Dylan is a Dr. Berger miracle. I had my tubal reversal surgery in January of 2006 and Dylan was born on January 22nd, 2007." Maria M.

"My tubal reversal baby boy is here thanks to the wonderful Dr. Berger and staff at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center." Andrea P.

"I got pregnant 2 months after my tubal reversal. Thank you Dr. Berger - I had a great pregnancy, full term, and fast delivery." Phoebe R.

"Our 3 year old tubal reversal daughter, Hally, has changed our lives and I still appreciate everything Dr. Berger did to bring so much joy into our lives." Peggy L.

"I had my baby 4 days after my Tubal Reversal Anniversary. Thank you, Dr. Berger - without you we wouldn't have our little miracle! " Dawn T.

"Kiaira is such a happy baby. Dr. Berger made our dreams come true with his tubal reversal procedure." Rosemary and Manuel M.

"We now have a new son thanks to the awesome skill of Dr. Gary Berger, the best tubal reversal doctor." Dana and Phillip A.

"We just wanted to say thank you, Dr. Berger and to all of the staff, for making our dream of having a family come true! We just added our second tubal reversal Berger Baby to our family only 16 months after our first Berger Baby." Scott and Kim H.

"Our new family addition arrived after tubal reversal surgery performed by Dr. Berger. I am a new mom again at 41." Tim and Amy F.

"Another miracle tubal reversal Berger Baby is born. Jayden is my husband's first child and to see the look on his face was priceless. Thank you all for this miraculous gift." JoAnn and Travis R.

"In October we will be delivering our 2nd Berger baby, then our family will be complete. We couldn't be more happy with our decision to take the leap and go see Dr. Berger for our TR surgery." Sheila P.

"My son is proof that tubal reversal works. My Berger Baby just turned one year of age - we are truly blessed thanks to you, Dr. Berger." Crystal W.

"We are so happy to report the arrival of our baby boy. We thank Dr. Berger and his wonderful staff for helping us realize the dream of having our fourth child." Misti D.

"Dr. Berger helped us create our miracle through tubal reversal surgery. He made our family so happy and complete." Angela P.

"Thank you, Dr. Berger, for giving us this miracle of life. I want to thank you for doing a wonderful job letting us have something so beautiful between Rodger and me." Heidi F.