Tubal Reversal or IVF, In Vitro Fertilization?

After Tubal Ligation Surgery what is the best option to achieve pregnancy? IVF or Tubal Reversal?

Both IVF and tubal reversal surgery are successful fertility treatment options for couples wishing to conceive after a tubal ligation. Dr. Kaufmann and Dr. Patel offer information about the best options for each individual case based on a variety of different factors.

IVF as an Option after Tubal Ligation

In vitro fertilization is the process by which fertility drugs are used to stimulate the ovaries to produce a number of eggs. Eggs are grown in little capsules of fluid called follicles, which can be monitored by ultrasound. Usually 10 days of fertility drugs are required to stimulate the ovaries.

When the eggs are mature, they are retrieved by ultrasound guidance. An ultrasound probe is inserted into the vagina with a needle alongside of it to aspirate the eggs. The eggs are then fertilized in a laboratory using the partner's sperm. Fertilized eggs are called embryos. Embryos are cultured in a special incubator for 2-5 days and then the embryos of the best quality are placed back into the uterus by a procedure called an embryo transfer.

The success rates of in vitro fertilization are directly proportional to age. For healthy women under 35 with 2 embryos transferred, the chances for a successful pregnancy are 55%. As women get older, success rates start declining.

By age 40, the success rate is closer to 30 or 40%. The risk of multiple pregnancies with in vitro fertilization is related to the number of embryos that are transferred back to the uterus. As women age, the competence of embryos starts to decline. Because of this, an extra 1 or 2 embryos may be transferred to compensate for this fact and improve pregnancy rate.

The following factors require consideration when deciding between tubal reversal and in vitro fertilization:

Age. As previously mentioned, the maternal age does have a significant impact on fertility. Fertility starts declining significantly after the age of 35 and then precipitously after the age of 39 to 40.

Male factor. It is important for the semen analysis to be performed before considering which option to choose. If the semen analysis shows poor quality of sperm, then by far the better option would be in vitro fertilization.

Social circumstances. In some situations, couples do not want to wait for pregnancy and therefore may decide to proceed with in vitro fertilization.

Cost. The cost of in vitro fertilization is approximately $10,000 to $12,000. The cost of a tubal reversal, which includes the surgeon's, assistant, anesthesiologist and facility cost are $6,000.

*Estimated Tubal Reversal Costs:

  • Surgeon’s Fee $3,000 (including assistant surgeon)
  • Anesthesia Charge $800
  • Facility Fees $2,200

Total Estimated Fees $6,000

Total estimated fees for a Tubal Reversal Procedure does not include follow-up care or the cost of your initial visit to our office.

Initial Office Visit $400 This visit includes an examination and a pelvic ultrasound examination. Fort Worth Fertility must be paid by check, money order or credit card at least 14 days prior to surgery or surgery will be cancelled.

*Fees may be subject to change without notice

Personal preference. The decision also depends on the particular person's willingness to undergo a laparotomy or in vitro fertilization. A laparotomy requires a general anesthetic and of course time for recovery. In vitro fertilization involves a commitment with regards to monitoring during the cycle itself, egg retrieval, and embryo transfer.

As you can see, there are numerous considerations to process when deciding between in vitro fertilization, IVF or tubal reversal. The main advantage of having a tubal reversal is that once it has been done, there is an ongoing chance of pregnancy every month. The success rates of both tubal reversal and in vitro fertilization are higher in the younger age group.

Dr. Kaufmann, Dr. Patel and staff will be happy to provide you with information to assist you in making a decision.

Tubal Reversal Testimonials

"I had my tubal reversal in June 2006 and 18 months later we have our little Kourtney. Words cannot express how grateful my family and I are to Dr. Kaufmann." Joan W. and Family

"My tubal reversal baby is here! He was born 11-9-07. Please thank Dr Kaufmann." Lisa P.

"It took me only 4 months to get pregnant after my tubal reversal." Susan and Johnny H.