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| GLOSSARY | HOW DOES ESSURE WORK? | BENEFITS OF ESSURE THE ESSURE PROCEDURE | IS ESSURE RIGHT FOR YOU? RISKS | HOW IS THE ESSURE PROCEDURE PERFORMED? |
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| One to 2 hours before the procedure, you are given medication to reduce tubal spasms and uterine cramping during the procedure. |
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| Step 1 |
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After a local anesthetic is injected into or applied to the cervix, the doctor inserts a narrow telescope, called a hysteroscope, through your vagina and cervix (the entrance to the uterus from the vagina) and into the uterus. The doctor may need to gently expand the opening of your cervix and may insert an instrument to do this. The hysteroscope is attached to a video camera and monitor so the doctor is able to see exactly what he or she is doing. Fluid, called normal saline (salt water), flows through the hysteroscope and into your uterus. The fluid is used to expand the uterus so the doctor can see the openings to your fallopian tubes. You might feel cramping from this. |
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Step 2
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A narrow inserter, called a catheter, is passed through the hysteroscope and into your fallopian tube. The micro-insert is attached to the end of the inserter.
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Step 3
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The micro-insert is placed in the fallopian tube and the inserter is removed. The process is repeated in the other fallopian tube. The entire procedure should take about 35 minutes, with only 15 minutes typically required to place the micro-inserts into the fallopian tubes.
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Step 4
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During the next 3 months, tissue will begin to grow into the micro-inserts, eventually blocking your fallopian tubes. You will need to use another form of birth control during this period until your doctor confirms that the procedure has worked. After 3 months, you need to have a test called a hysterosalpingogram (HSG). This test is required before your doctor can tell you whether you may begin relying on Essure for contraception. During an HSG, your doctor fills your uterus with dye and then takes an X ray to see if the dye remained in your uterus or traveled down your fallopian tubes. The purpose of this test is to make sure that both of your tubes are blocked and that both of the micro-inserts are in the correct position. Note: Always call your doctor if you have any unusual pain, bleeding, or other symptoms. |
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