April 30th, 2004

Christie Clinic now offers Essure® permanent birth control, which, unlike tubal ligation (having your tubes tied), involves no incisions and doesn't destroy the fallopian tubes. Since its approval by the FDA, Essure is the first option for women looking for an alternative to tubal ligation.

Essure is a non-invasive procedure performed under a local anesthetic in the gynecologist's office. Most women are in and out of the doctor's office in 45 minutes. During the procedure, the doctor places a micro-insert in each of the fallopian tubes. The micro-insert is a tiny, flexible coil-shaped device made of safe polyester fibers and metals. In the months following the Essure procedure, scar tissue forms over the micro-insert to keep sperm from fertilizing the egg.

Women are not immediately protected from pregnancy following the placement of the Essure micro-insert. Another type of birth control must be used for three months after the procedure. After three months, there is a follow-up appointment to ensure that the micro-inserts have been placed correctly and the fallopian tubes are fully obstructed.

Some of the other benefits of Essure are no scars, no hormones, and quick recovery. If you're interested in learning more about Essure, visit www.essure.com or call Christie's Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at 217.366.1255.

Tags: birth control, tubal ligation, essure®