Factors influencing on the refusal of puerperal tubal sterilization

Abstract

Objective To tried factors influencing on the refusal of puerperal tubal sterilization.

Methods Two hundred and four puerpera who delivered their third or more living child at Songklanagarind Hospital from June 1991 to November 1992 were interviewed regarding their economic status, obstetric and gynecological history, and attitude towards sterilization. One hundred and thirty six puerperal tubal sterilization. Thirty cases stated that they would have sterilization later, and thirty eight cases denied sterilization.

Results We found that the puerpera who denied sterilization were Muslims, had lower education, had vaginal deliveries, had longer duration of marriage, and had higher proportion of remarriage comparing to the accepted group. The refusal group believed that sterilization caused more disadvantages than the accepted group. The husbands were the most influential persons on making decision of sterilization, while the medical personnel were the least. The reasons for denying sterilization were fear of operation complications and pain, religious prohibition, and husband objection.

Conclusion We recommended that husbands should be encouraged to participate in motivation and decision making process.