Ovarian Function and Vascular Resistance After Tubal Sterilization

Abstract

In this study, 19 women who underwent tubal sterilization with laparoscopic bipolar coagulation were evaluated before the sterilization procedure and 1 year after. Baseline levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estradiol were measured during the early follicular phase (day 3) of the patient's menstrual cycle before tubal sterilization. Ovarian volume, antral follicle counts, and ovarian blood flow rates were determined using transvaginal ultrasonography (TVU). One year after laparoscopy, the hormone measures were repeated, on day 3 of the menstrual cycle, and a repeat TVU was performed. Pre- and postoperative levels of FSH, LH, and estradiol were essentially unchanged. Also, the mean ovarian volume, follicle counts, and ovarian artery resistivity index remained unchanged. When all measurements were compared, ovarian volume and follicle counts were significantly correlated, both before and after sterilization, (P <0.05), and both measures correlated with baseline FSH levels. No other associations were seen.