RISK OF ECTOPIC PREGNANCY FOLLOWING TUBAL-STERILIZATION

  • 1 January 1982
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 60  (3) , 326-330
Abstract
To determine the impact of tubal sterilization on the overall incidence of ectopic pregnancy, reported incidence rates of ectopic pregnancy after tubal sterilization were compared to rates associated with other contraceptive methods or no contraception. For each contraceptive method, the cumulative lifetime risk of ectopic pregnancy was then calculated from the age at which a final contraceptive choice was made. Tubal sterilization was associated with a lower cumulative lifetime risk of ectopic pregnancy than on contraception or use of an intrauterine contraceptive device. Tubal sterilization carries a somewhat higher risk of ectopic pregnancy than do barrier methods of contraception. Oral contraceptives are associated with a much lower ectopic pregnancy risk than any other contraceptive method or no contraception. Overall, the risk of an ectopic pregnancy for most women undergoing tubal sterilization in the USA is estimated to be lower than if they had not been sterilized and had continued their previous contraceptive practices.