Prognostic factors for preoperative consultation of women desiring sterilization: findings of a retrospective analysis
Neuhaus, W.; Bolte, A.
Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics and Gynaecology 16(1): 45-50
1995
ISSN/ISBN: 0167-482X PMID: 7787957 DOI: 10.3109/01674829509025656Document Number: 293517
37 sterilized women who requested sterilization reversal at the department of gynecology and obstetrics at the University of Cologne in Germany completed a questionnaire on why they chose sterilization and later wanted it reversed. The most common reasons for undergoing sterilization were: a crisis in the relationship with their partner (12), social reasons (7), and birth limiting (7). 3 women had been sterilized without their consent. 11 women, including the 3 who were sterilized without their consent, noted that a 3rd person (partner, physician, mother, girlfriend) was the decisive factor leading to sterilization. Key reasons for applying for sterilization reversal included a new relationship (20), renewed desire to have children with original partner (9), and death of a child (5). 23 of the women had undergone postpartum sterilization. They had a greater feeling of having been manipulated by a 3rd person than those who underwent interval sterilization. Only 11 of the 37 women had wanted their last child before sterilization. 65% of all the women sought counseling from a gynecologist about sterilization. The gynecologist apparently influenced the final decision in about 33% of women. In 60% of cases, the women had gone through with the sterilization without the full consent of their partners. 15 women had suffered from depression requiring drug therapy. 18 women believed that the sterilization produced a negative psychosocial situation, especially among postpartum sterilization cases and those who felt they were coerced to undergo sterilization. Sterilization appeared to have a positive effect on sexual well-being. These findings confirm the importance of extensive preoperative consultation, ideally with both partners, and of the need for the woman to make her own decision without any manipulative influence from a third party.