What Is Essure?

If you’re done having children and want a permanent birth control solution without surgery, then Essure could be the answer. Essure is non-hormonal and can be implanted in the office of your gynecologist serving Houston in a 10-minute procedure. Could Essure be the right birth control for you? Here are the facts you need to know.

How Does Essure Work?

The Essure system consists of two small coils. These coils are implanted at the ends of your fallopian tubes, where they connect with your uterus. Once the coils are in place, the body builds tissue around them, effectively closing off the fallopian tubes. When the tubes are closed, sperm cannot enter to reach an egg and fertilize it. Essure sterilization is over 99 percent effective.

What Happens During the Implantation?

Gynecologists implant Essure in the office. The coils are gently guided to their places in the fallopian tubes via the vagina. Local anesthesia may be offered, but many patients have the procedure without any kind of anesthesia. The process is over in about 10 minutes and the total appointment time for getting Essure is typically 45 minutes. You can return to normal activities in a day or two. A few months after implantation, your gynecologist will check to see if you’re protected against pregnancy. He or she will insert dye into your uterus and use an ultrasound to see if any of the dye leaks into your fallopian tubes. If there is no leak, your Essure sterilization was successful. You will need to use alternative birth control until this second step is complete.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Essure?

If you are certain that you are done having children, then Essure could be a good option. It is also ideal for women who need permanent birth control but are hesitant to have a surgical procedure. Because it is non-hormonal, Essure doesn’t carry the same risks as birth control pills or hormonal IUDs. The best way to decide if Essure is right for you is to schedule a consultation with your gynecologist.