Postpartum and Postabortion Sterilization

To evaluate the feasibility of postpartum and postabortion sterilization, several studies (including unpublished data) from the India Fertility Research Programme and the International Fertility Research Program were reviewed. Within 36 hours of a term delivery, sterilization by either laparoscopy or laparotomy is associated with clinically acceptable rates of technical difficulties, complications, failures, and duration of hospitalization. Following first trimester abortions, it appears satisfactory to perform sterilization via laparotomy, laparoscopy, colpotomy, or culdoscopy. Following second trimester abortions, sterilization by laparoscopy or laparotomy is satisfactory. Because laparoscopy and culdoscopy require special training and equipment, they are of limited usefulness compared to laparotomy and colpotomy.