Español Health Glossary Store
Planned Parenthood
 
Home Health Topics Issues & Action Donate Resources for Educators Newsroom About Us
Health Topics Nav
Health Topics Nav
Abortion
Birth Control
Emergency Contraception (Morning After Pill)
Men
Tools For Parents
Pregnancy
Relationships
Sexuality
Sexual Orientation & Gender
STDs, HIV & Safer Sex
Teens
Women's Health
Ask Dr. Cullins
Abortion
Birth Control
Body
Emergency Contraception
STIs/STDs
LGBTQ
Pregnancy
Relationships
Sex
These documents are for informational purposes only and are not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Ask Dr. Cullins: Birth Control



Q:  I had a tubal six years ago after my second son was born. Since then I've had maybe one period a year. Do tubals cause early menopause?

A:  No. Tubal sterilization blocks the fallopian tubes. This prevents sperm from joining with an egg. The ovaries and the uterus remain intact and unchanged after tubal sterilization. This means that a woman will continue to produce the hormones that influence her menstrual cycle. And she will continue to have her period.

The average age for menopause is 51. If natural or induced menopause is reached before the age of 40, it is called ovarian failure or premature menopause. Be sure to consult your health care provider if you have questions about unusual vaginal bleeding or menstrual irregularity.



This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.


Published: 10.20.03 | Updated: 09.07.06

© 2007 Planned Parenthood® Federation of America, Inc.
All rights reserved.
Información pertinente