COUPLES seeking a permanent method of birth control will soon be able to take a high-tech ten-minute option.

A ground-breaking service is being introduced at the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton for those whose familes are complete and for women where childbirth presents a risk.

It involves using a hysteroscope - a narrow telescope - to insert two soft and flexible inserts into each fallopian tube aroiund which tissue develops, effectively closing the tubes.

The ESSURE system is a minimally invasive technique designed to provide a non-surgical alternative for women seeking sterilisation which involves no anaesthesia, no cutting and takes, on average, just ten minutes.

The South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is planning to run two consultant led outpatient clinics a month at the Northallerton hospital and currently has over 25 women waiting for the new procedure.

Consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Suzie Peatman said: "We are delighted to be offering this service at the Friarage for local women.

“I think it’s very important that women make choices for themselves and we finally have a technique comparable in simplicity, accessibility, and safety to vasectomy in men.

“The procedure is undertaken as an outpatient procedure, meaning women can resume their normal activities quickly."

Nicola Pearson was the first patient to have the procedure at the Friarage. Following the birth of son, Noah, Nicola, 37, from Middlesbrough, had heart and other medical problems leaving her at high risk for a general anaesthetic procedure.

“The whole experience has been very positive for me,” she said.

“The treatment was very quick and convenient, though a little embarrassing.

“With my health problems it was the most suitable treatment for me and I was soon back to normal. I would recommend it.”