Related Experiment Videos
Sterilization in Finland: from eugenics to contraception
E Hemminki1, A Rasimus, E Forssas
1National Research and Development Centre for Welfare and Health, Health Services Research Unit, Helsinki, Finland. elina.hemminki@stakes.fi
Social Science & Medicine (1982)
|February 3, 1998
Summary
Sterilization in Finland shifted from eugenics to contraception. While historically influenced by eugenics, family planning is now the primary reason, with high satisfaction but some regrets, indicating a need for more male sterilization options.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Medical History
- Sociology
Background:
- Examined the historical evolution of sterilization practices in Finland.
- Investigated the transition from eugenic motivations to contraceptive use.
Observation:
- Analyzed nationwide sterilization statistics from 1950 onwards.
- Utilized a 1994 survey (74% response rate) to assess prevalence, characteristics, and satisfaction.
- Employed logistic regression for data analysis.
Findings:
- Despite eugenic laws (1935, 1950), eugenic sterilizations were infrequent; family planning became the main driver.
- Prior to 1970, sterilizations were sometimes linked to abortion access.
- In 1994, 9% of Finnish women used sterilization for contraception; these women were older, had more children, and were from lower social classes.
- Sterilized women reported high satisfaction, though 8.5% expressed regret.
Implications:
- Sterilization remains a significant family planning method in Finland.
- The low rate of male sterilization highlights a need for increased promotion.
- Women's reported regrets suggest a potential need to reconsider the age limit for sterilization.