A laparoscopic tubal ligation is done to permanently prevent a woman from getting pregnant. During this procedure, the doctor makes two small cuts (incisions). The dotted lines show where the cuts might be made. One incision is just below your belly button and the other is lower on your abdomen.

The doctor puts a lighted tube, or scope, and other surgical tools through the incisions. The doctor is able to see your fallopian tubes with the scope. The fallopian tubes are then cut, clamped closed, tied off or sealed by applying heat (cautery). Removing the fallopian tubes is another option.