My WebMD Sign In

Please enter email address

Enter your password

Keep me signed in on this computer

Show more Information

If you select "Keep me signed in on this computer", you can stay signed in to WebMD.com on this computer for up to 2 weeks or until you sign out. This means that a cookie will stay on your computer even when you exit or close your browser which may reduce your levels of privacy and security. You should never select this option if you're using a publicly accessible computer, or if you're sharing a computer with others. Even if you select this option there are some features of our site that still require you to log in for privacy reasons.

Forget your password? Having trouble signing in?

Why should I
sign up for WebMD?

With a WebMD Account you can:

Track your way to weight loss success
Manage your family's vaccinations
Join the conversation

See more benefits Sign Up

Why WebMD?

My WebMD

Show Menu

Facebook Twitter Pinterest

WebMD Home

Women's Health

Email a Friend

Print Article

Women's Health Trends:

Women's Health

Tools & Resources

Font Size

Mini-Laparotomy (Mini-Lap) for Tubal Ligation

A tubal ligation is considered a permanent method of birth control. A mini-laparotomy ("mini-lap") involves a smaller incision [usually less than 2 in. (5.1 cm) long] than a regular laparotomy. The incision may be made just at or above the pubic hairline. The fallopian tubes are pulled up into or out of the incision, tied off, and then put back into place.

This procedure is favored for women who have had prior abdominal or pelvic surgery or who have heart or respiratory diseases.

Recommended Related to Women

10 Small Changes with Big Health Payoffs

By Sarah JioSee why minor lifestyle tweaks can make a major difference for your overall well-being Does it ever feel like you have to spend hours and hours at the gym, change your diet dramatically or jump way out of your comfort zone to reap any rewards in the health department? Think again. Our experts say that these small changes can have significant health payoffs. 1. Floss more often. According to Robert Emami, DDS, chief of staff at Dental Specialties, a multispecialty practice...

Read the 10 Small Changes with Big Health Payoffs article > >

A mini-lap may not be appropriate for women who are very overweight or who have a history of disease affecting the fallopian tubes, such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

By	Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer	Sarah Anne Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Revised	May 13, 2010

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: May 13, 2010

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.