Hysteroscopic female sterilization with Essure® in an outpatient setting

Abstract

The aim of this study is to evaluate the short and long-term results of hysteroscopic sterilization in an outpatient setting. Sixty-one women underwent hysteroscopic sterilization. At follow-up, all of the women were asked to complete a questionnaire concerning possible pregnancy, bleeding patterns, side-effects, or need for further therapy after sterilization. Technical feasibility, complications, patient satisfaction, and tubal occlusion based on X-ray or ultrasound were measured. Fifty-eight (95%) women were sterilized according to this method. Successful bilateral device placement was achieved in 52 women (85%) during the first attempt and in six (9.8%) during the second. A total of 50 (81.9%) women submitted completed outcome questionnaires. The mean follow-up period was 23 (range 7-67) months. No pregnancies were reported. All questionnaire respondents expressed overall satisfaction with the procedure. To conclude, Essure sterilization is a safe effective method for female sterilization that is feasible in the outpatient setting.