Medically reviewed by Alan Lucks | MD, Alan Lucks MDPC Private Practice - New York on January 22nd, 2026.
Eggs continue to be produced monthly after tubal ligation
Eggs are naturally absorbed by the body after ovulation
Tubal ligation permanently prevents eggs from reaching the uterus
The procedure does not impact hormone production or menstrual cycles
When considering birth control alternatives, tubal ligation represents a permanent solution for preventing pregnancy. However, many people wonder what exactly happens to eggs after this procedure. Understanding the biological process can help demystify this important reproductive health decision.
Tubal ligation interrupts the egg's traditional journey through the reproductive system. While the ovaries continue to release eggs monthly, these reproductive cells are now unable to travel through the fallopian tubes and cannot be fertilized. Instead, the body has a natural mechanism for managing these unfertilized eggs.
Your ovaries will continue functioning exactly as they did before the procedure. Each month, a mature egg is still released during ovulation. However, with the fallopian tubes blocked, this egg cannot travel its typical path toward potential fertilization.
After an egg is released, it begins a journey that would normally end in one of two ways: fertilization or natural disintegration. With birth control methods like tubal ligation, the egg simply cannot reach the uterus.
The body responds by gradually breaking down the unfertilized egg through a process called resorption. Specialized cells within the reproductive system begin to dissolve the egg, and its cellular components are ultimately absorbed back into the bloodstream and surrounding tissues.
This natural reabsorption process is quite efficient. The body recognizes that the egg will not be fertilized and begins to break it down within 24 to 48 hours after ovulation. Proteins and cellular materials are recycled, ensuring no waste remains in the reproductive system.
Importantly, birth control options like tubal ligation do not disrupt hormone production. Your menstrual cycle continues normally, with eggs being produced and then naturally reabsorbed each month.
Process |
Description |
Duration |
|---|---|---|
Egg Release |
Ovary releases mature egg |
24-48 hours |
Potential Fertilization Window |
Traditional reproductive path |
12-24 hours |
Reabsorption Process |
Body breaks down unfertilized egg |
24-48 hours |
Hormonal Function |
Continues uninterrupted |
Monthly cycle |
No, ovaries continue to release eggs monthly.
Tubal ligation does not impact the timing or symptoms of menopause.
No, the body efficiently reabsorbs eggs without complications.
The process is completely natural and typically unnoticeable.
Eggs remain viable for approximately 12-24 hours after ovulation.
Understanding egg biology after tubal ligation can help you feel more confident about your reproductive health choice. Ready to meet your AI doctor? Get started with Doctronic today.
When considering birth control alternatives, tubal ligation represents a permanent solution for preventing pregnancy. However, many people wonder what exactly happens to eggs [...]
Read More
