Cross-sectional study on the occurrence of menstrual disorders post-tubal sterilization.

Yasodha  Ananthan; Abi  Chandrasekaran

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i12.2241

Authors

Yasodha Ananthan Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bharath Medical College and Hospital
Abi Chandrasekaran Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bharath Medical College and Hospital

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i12.2241

Keywords:

Tubal Sterilization, Menstrual Disorders, Menorrhagia, Cross-Sectional Study, Contraception

Abstract

Background

Tubal sterilization is a common permanent contraceptive method worldwide. However, its potential long-term sequelae, particularly menstrual disorders, remain a subject of debate. This study aimed to determine the occurrence and pattern of menstrual disorders among women who underwent tubal sterilization.

Methods

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Bhaarath Medical College and Hospital from October 2024 to October 2025. One hundred parous women aged 25-40 years who had undergone tubal sterilization at least one year prior were enrolled using a consecutive sampling technique. A pre-tested, structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, surgical history, and menstrual patterns. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics were presented as frequencies and percentages. The Chi-square test was used to assess associations, with p-values <0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 32.4 ± 4.1 years. The overall occurrence of menstrual disorders post-sterilization was 65% (65/100). The most common disorders were menorrhagia (30%), followed by polymenorrhea (18%) and intermenstrual spotting (12%). A statistically significant association (p=0.02) was found between the type of sterilization technique and the occurrence of menorrhagia. Women with a history of postpartum sterilization reported a higher incidence of menstrual irregularities compared to those with interval sterilization (72% vs. 58%, p=0.04).

Conclusion

A high occurrence of menstrual disorders was observed among women following tubal sterilization. Menorrhagia was the most prevalent disorder.

Recommendation

Pre-sterilization counseling should include comprehensive information about the potential risk of menstrual irregularities to ensure informed decision-making.

Author Biographies

Yasodha Ananthan, Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bharath Medical College and Hospital

has completed MBBS in 1988 and MD in 1999 from the prestigious institute from Madurai Medical College, Tamil Nadu, India. The author has been extensively practicing obstetrics and gynecology, high-risk obstetrics, and laparoscopy for more than 26 years. The author has several national and international publications.

Abi Chandrasekaran, Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bharath Medical College and Hospital

completed MBBS at Stanley Medical College, Chennai, in 2009 and MD (OG) at PGIMER, Chandigarh, where she received the Best Outgoing Medallist award in 2012. She completed a fellowship in minimal access surgery and an Advanced Diploma in Reproductive Medicine from the University of Kiel, Germany, along with a fellowship in cosmetic gynecology. With more than 16 years of experience in obstetrics, gynecology, and laparoscopy, and extensive experience in infertility care and cosmetic gynecology, the author has several national and international publications.

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