Essure Tubal Essure is a minimally invasive sterilization procedure for woman. Unlike a tubal ligation where the fallopian tubes are tied, cut and/or burned with a cautery under general anesthesia, Essure requires no incision, does not require general anesthesia, and has a much more rapid recovery period. Essure is a soft, flexible micro-insert that is inserted vaginally and placed in each fallopian tube by a trained gynecologist. The physician uses a visually guided method called hysteroscopy. Once in the fallopian tube, the micro-insert works with the body to form a biological blockage. This prevents sperm from reaching the egg. The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes and women can generally return to work in one day. It takes 3 months after the Essure Tubal for it to be effective in preventing pregnancy. During this time women must use an alternate form of birth control. Essure Tubal has been regarded through clinical research to be extremely effective and safe. Patients should consult their physician for a complete explanation of the procedure and its associated risks and complications.