Does TRICARE Cover Tubal Ligation? 2026 Costs & Rules | TRICARE.com

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## Quick answer Yes, TRICARE covers tubal ligation (sterilization for women) as a proven method of birth control. The procedure is typically covered at 100% with no out-of-pocket costs for active duty family members on TRICARE Prime, though small copays may apply for retirees or those using TRICARE Select.

Details

TRICARE classifies tubal ligation as a surgical contraceptive service. Because it is considered a preventive service under the Affordable Care Act guidelines (which TRICARE generally follows for birth control), cost-sharing is often waived for many beneficiaries.

### Coverage by Plan (2026 Rates) * **TRICARE Prime:** There is no enrollment fee for active duty family members, and the procedure is covered with a **$0 copayment** when performed by a network provider. * **TRICARE Select (Group A):** For retirees and their families, a small cost-share may apply if the procedure is billed as a standard surgical outpatient service rather than a preventive screening. However, most network preventive services are **$0**. * **TRICARE Select (Group B):** Beneficiaries who joined the military after January 1, 2018, typically see a **$0 cost-share** for network preventive services.

### Where the Procedure is Performed 1. **Military Hospitals/Clinics:** If you are enrolled in Prime and live near a Military Treatment Facility (MTF), you can have the procedure done at no cost, subject to provider availability. 2. **Civilian Network:** If you are using TRICARE Select or have a referral from your Primary Care Manager (PCM) under Prime, you can use a civilian surgeon. In the **East Region**, this is managed by **Humana Military**; in the **West Region**, this is managed by **TriWest Healthcare Alliance**.

### The "Permanent" Requirement TRICARE covers tubal ligation because it is a permanent form of birth control. It is important to note that while the *ligation* is covered, TRICARE typically **does not cover tubal ligation reversals** unless it is medically necessary due to a separate physical illness or injury. Reversals for the purpose of becoming pregnant again are considered elective and must be paid for out-of-pocket.

### Related Costs * **Anesthesia:** Covered as part of the surgical package. * **Follow-up care:** Standard post-operative visits are covered. * **Consultations:** The initial office visit to discuss sterilization with your OB/GYN is covered.

## Who this affects This coverage applies to the following beneficiaries: * **Active Duty Service Members:** Fully covered (usually at an MTF). * **Active Duty Family Members:** Covered under Prime, Select, and Overseas plans. * **Retirees and their Families:** Covered, though specific copays depend on Group A vs. Group B status. * **National Guard and Reserve:** Covered under TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS). * **TRICARE For Life:** Covered as a secondary payer to Medicare if Medicare's requirements are met.

## Sources * **TRICARE.mil Birth Control Coverage:** https://www.tricare.mil/CoveredServices/IsItCovered/BirthControl * **Humana Military (East):** https://www.humanamilitary.com/ * **TriWest Healthcare Alliance (West):** https://www.triwest.com/ * **Defense Health Agency (DHA):** https://health.mil/