Late sequelae following laparoscopic female sterilization
Bartfai, G.; Kaali, S.G.
International Journal of Fertility 34(1): 67-70
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0020-725X PMID: 2565309 Document Number: 328012
Late sequelae 16 months or more after laparoscopic sterilization by Falope rings (380) or electrocautery (243) were analyzed by mailed questionnaires, telephone interviews and medical records. The sterilizations were done from January 1980-June 1985 at a free-standing surgical clinic; patients were aged 22-48; 259 procedures were post- abortal, 364 were interval; 89% were by general anesthesia. The survey emphasized satisfaction or dissatisfaction with the procedure, altered menstrual pattern requiring D & C, psychological consequences and continuation of yearly gynecological care. 18% expressed regret, 7 because of having an abortion at the time, 1 because of the death of her child, and 6 because of remarriage. 2 women reported that their decision at the time was not definite, despite counseling. 2 failures resulted in pregnancy (0.3%). 4.8% required a D & C for abnormal menstrual bleeding. 13 of these 30 had prior history of menstrual disorders. 8.2% reported psychological problems, 33 were seen by a psychiatrist; 3 were in psychological care. Medical factors associated with the psychological problems were concomitant abortion in 5, and severe meno-metrorrhagia and depression 3. 16.9% failed to continue routine gynecological care. There was no apparent association of any of these findings with type of procedure or anesthesia. It was concluded that counseling should touch on all these topics more thoroughly before sterilization.