Essure is a permanent method of birth-control that does not require a surgery. In this case, agents introduced inside the body act as natural barriers between the egg and the sperm. This is a quick procedure, and does not involve any recovery time. The success rate of essure is 99.7% to 99.8%, meaning 2-3 out of 1000 women will conceive after undergoing the procedure. Women undergoing this method of birth-control are able to lead a normal life.
In this process, doctors insert a flexible micro-insert inside the fallopian tubes. These micro-inserts are not introduced inside the body through an incision; they are inserted through the vagina and the cervix. Once the micro-inserts have been introduced inside the fallopian tubes, they form a barrier around themselves. This prevents the egg from coming into contact with a sperm, therefore preventing pregnancy. The micro-inserts however, do not interfere with the normal functioning of the body. The ovaries keep releasing the eggs, but they are absorbed by the woman’s body.
Three months after the essure process has been performed, doctors conduct an Essure Confirmation Test. This test is conducted to confirm the absence of a fertilized egg. Doctors however, recommend the simultaneous use of another form of birth-control during this time.
Although essure is a pain-free procedure, some women may complain of cramps and nausea after undergoing it. In some cases, the menstrual bleeding may also undergo a change. It may become lighter or heavier. This process is not a time-consuming one, and women usually go back to their normal lives within hours of having gone through it. However, unlike tubal ligation, essure cannot be reversed.
The cost of undergoing essure procedure ranges anywhere from $1,200-$4,000. It is also covered in almost all of the insurance plans.