Which part is removed in a tubectomy?

The correct answer is Option (4) → A small part of the fallopian tube is removed.

Surgical methods of contraception are called sterilisation. They are a terminal method, used when a couple wants no more children. Surgery blocks the path of the gametes, so fertilisation cannot take place. In the male the operation is vasectomy, and in the female it is tubectomy (Figure 3.4b).

Option (1) Ovaries are removed. — Incorrect. The ovaries are not removed in tubectomy. Only the fallopian tubes are cut or tied, so the ovum cannot meet the sperms.

Option (2) Nucleus is removed. — Incorrect. There is no such step in tubectomy. The operation is on the fallopian tube, not on any nucleus.

Option (3) A small part of the vas deferens is removed. — Incorrect. Removing or tying a small part of the vas deferens is vasectomy, the sterilisation of the male. It is done through a small cut on the scrotum.

Option (4) A small part of the fallopian tube is removed. — Correct. In tubectomy, a small part of the fallopian tube is removed or tied up through a small cut in the abdomen or through the vagina.

NCERT Extract:
Population Stabilisation and Birth Control – “… Surgical methods, also called sterilisation, are generally advised for the male/female partner as a terminal method to prevent any more pregnancies. Surgical intervention blocks gamete transport and thereby prevent conception. Sterilisation procedure in the male is called ‘vasectomy’ and that in the female, ‘tubectomy’. In vasectomy, a small part of the vas deferens is removed or tied up through a small incision on the scrotum (Figure 3.4a) whereas in tubectomy, a small part of the fallopian tube is removed (Figure 3.4b) or tied up through a small incision in the abdomen or through vagina.”

Figure 3.4 (b) Tubectomy