What does it mean to get your tubes tied?

Surgical sterilization, also called tubal ligation or getting your tubes tied, is a surgical procedure where a doctor puts a clip, band, or ring on the fallopian tubes, or removes a section of the tubes. (In other words, it doesn’t usually involve tying!) This type of procedure prevents eggs from being fertilized after they are released from the ovaries. Surgical sterilization is permanent and effective immediately.