CNM Certified Nurse Midwife

Answer: D - The occurrence of sharp shoulder pain may be expected after the surgery. Tubal ligation involves infusion of carbon dioxide into the incision to lift the abdominal wall upward. Until carbon dioxide is absorbed, the client may experience abdominal bloating and sharp shoulder pain for the first 24 hours. Unprotected coitus is avoided because the sperm may get trapped in the tube and fertilize an ovum, causing ectopic pregnancy. In contrast to hysterectomy, tubal ligation does not affect the menstrual cycle. Coitus is safe three days after the procedure.