Quinacrine sterilization (QS) among high-risk women: a study of 134 cases

To determine if quinacrine sterilization (QS) is safe and effective in women at high risk for surgery.

A trial was initiated at the Government Medical College in Patiala, India, in December 1993. Patient intake was terminated in July 1999 and the cut-off date for this analysis was March 31, 2003. Using a modified IUD inserter, seven 252 mg quinacrine pellets with 50 mg of diclofenac were transcervically inserted into the uterus. DMPA 150 mg was administered IM at the time of the first insertion as a back-up contraceptive. This same combination was inserted a month later. A total of 134 women underwent QS. Of these, 92 were considered to be at high risk for surgery, 27 were afraid of surgery or voluntarily opted for QS, and 15 had had failed surgical sterilization or surgery was found not to be technically feasible. Follow-up was scheduled for 1, 3, 6 and 12 months, and then annually after the second insertion or whenever side effects or complications were experienced.

Mean follow-up was 7.2 years. No pregnancies or serious complications were experienced.

QS is a safe and effective option for women at high risk of surgical complications.