Peruvian experience of the practice of tubal ligation.

Abstract

From 1970-74 378 tubal ligations were completed at the Hospital Amazonico. Three methods were used: abdominal (120) inguinal (3) and vaginal (255). Tubal ligation offers several advantages over other birth control methods in developing countries. Vasectomy is unpopular with men IUDs are unpopular with women. Oral contraceptives are too expensive and require too many trips to the doctor. Tubal ligation particularly postpartum is performed by a surgeon for a short time using small quantities of anaesthetic on a young fit patient. Few complications were reported. The psychological effects were extremely positive. Many women suffered a high degree of anxiety from producing children annually. They lived in fear of sexual intercourse and of their husbands leaving them if they became pregnant again. In view of the high infant mortality rates in developing countries the authors encourage patients to have at least 4 children before a tubal ligation. Cost of operation is $5.00.