Sterilization of women using laparoscopy. a 3-year cohort
Siana, J.E.; Svejsø, J.; Rex, S.
Ugeskrift for Laeger 149(48): 3283-3286
1987
ISSN/ISBN: 0041-5782 PMID: 2963423 Document Number: 356293
Retrospective review of 294 women who were sterilized by laparoscopy employing the falope ring during a 3-year period revealed complications in 2.7% of the cases. 2.5% became pregnant after the intervention. In more than 1/2 of the cases, this was due to incorrect placement of the ring. 21% experienced low abdominal pain postoperatively and 58% experienced menstrual changes. On the average, the patients felt well after 12 days; work was re-commenced after 3. Sexual activity was resumed after 14 days. Dyspareunia occurred in 6.5% of the cases and persisted, on an average, for 18 weeks. 14% experienced increased libido and 16% said they found greater sexual satisfaction. Nearly every 10th women (8.6%) regretted the procedure and 7% were dissatisfied with the cosmetic results. The frequency and predictability of complications, postoperative lower abdominal pain, and menstrual disturbances were similar in both a department of general surgery and a specialized gynecological unit. The duration of hospitalization, time spent convalescing, and duration of sick leave were considerably shorter than following sterilization by laparotomy and, in addition, sexual activity was resumed earlier. On the basis of this investigation, laparoscopic sterilization is recommended as a means of sterilization for women in departments of general surgery. (author's modified)