[Complications and psychosomatic problems after tubal sterilization]

From 1969 to 1974, 2080 patients were sterilized, 1702 by the pelviscopic method (electrocoagulation), 375 by laparotomy, and 3 vaginally. About two thirds of the sterilisations by laparotomy were carried out after delivery or during other surgical procedures. 15% of all women were sterilized for medical reasons; the other cases had to be 35 years of age or at least 30 if they had more than 3 children. The overall complication rate was 5% with both methods. Complications during pelviscopy included hemorrhage, bowel injury and burns. Postoperative complications after laparotomy were hemorrhage, thrombosis and wound dehiscence. Only half of the patients could be followed up; there were 4 pregnancies among 1308 women. In more than 50% the sexual relations had improved, in only 3% they had worsened. About 97% of the pelviscopically sterilized patients were satisfied with surgical method chosen and with their present status. It is recommended to allow sufficient time to think the decision over prior to the operation.