Before the operation, you may be given a mild sedative to relax you. Then you will be given an anesthetic so that you will not feel pain during the operation. Sometimes the operation is done under general anesthesia that puts you to sleep. The operation can also be done under local anesthesia while you are awake. Another kind of anesthesia used less often is spinal anesthesia, which makes you numb from the waist down.
Local anesthesia is safer and less expensive than general or spinal anesthesia.
The decision about which anesthesia to have depends upon what you and your doctor decide is best for you. Postpartum sterilization is convenient because you are already in the hospital. On the other hand, a seemingly healthy new baby can develop a problem in the weeks following birth. If you are interested in a postpartum tubal, talk to your doctor long before your due date. If your tubal is paid for with federal funds, or if you live in some states and cities, there is a waiting period between the time you sign the consent form and the time the tubal is done.