During this procedure, which takes about 15 minutes to perform, the physician implants soft, flexible inserts into openings of the fallopian tubes to permanently prevent pregnancy. Implantation of the Essure inserts requires no incisions because it is performed through the cervical opening with the aid of a thin, telescopic instrument called a hysteroscope.
In preparation for the procedure, the patient is positioned and anesthesia may be administered. A speculum is inserted into the vagina to allow access to the cervix. The physician inserts a hysteroscope into the vagina and carefully guides it through the cervix and into the uterus. The hysteroscope is equipped with a light, a camera and a channel for instruments.
The physician guides a soft, flexible Essure insert through the hysteroscope and into the opening of the fallopian tube. Once it is positioned correctly, the insert is released so that it can expand and grip the tube's walls. The physician will deploy a second Essure insert securely within the other fallopian tube.
When the procedure is complete, the instruments are removed and the patient will be able to return home. Over the next three months, tissue will grow into the inserts, permanently blocking the fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy. The patient will need to use other birth control methods during this time. After three months, the patient will return for a hysterosalpingogram (an x-ray in which dye is injected into the uterus) or possibly a specialized ultrasound to confirm that the tubes are completely blocked.