T.O.
T.,
I am also a 2-time mom (both c-sections) who had a tubal ligation. I never had heavy or painful periods until after the tubal. I have been told that it is pretty common afterward, although I don't really recall hearing that beforehand (don't think it would have stopped me though... I knew I was finished after 2 kids). I have VERY heavy periods now and quite a bit more of PMS. Now, I would also wonder about the fibroids since I've heard that can cause pain and heavy bleeding. I guess no pain is good, but the heavy bleeding could be a result of either the tubal or the fibroids.
Like you said, I'd bring it up at my annual but not worry unless I started getting really bad cramping or some other sign that something is wrong. Were you on the pill at all before you had kids? I was at different times, and obviously had lighter periods because of it. Getting used to that after the tubal was also tough... I was kind of used to short, light periods.
Anyway, my point is, yes, I'm in the same boat and have been told it's normal. I've also been given the opportunity by my GYN to go on the pill for 3-6 months to see if it would help regulate things, reduce flow, and limit PMS. Apparently that helps to 'reset' the clock, so to speak. I haven't done it yet, but it may still be a possibility.
Good luck and best wishes!