Since the 1970s tubal sterilization has been among the most widely used contraceptive methods worldwide. Currently, in the United States 800,000 have the procedure annually. One of the problematic effects of tubal sterilization is menstrual changes and/or disorders; however, the results of studies in this area have been inconsistent and inconclusive. Recently, there has been growing evidence that tubal sterilization protects against ovarian cancer, possibly through physiological transformations that result in ovarian dysfunction and decline. This paper explores the possibility that the biological mechanism of ovarian dysfunction and decline may affect the menstrual and menopausal changes that result from hormonal imbalances created by ovarian dysfunction. Using data from a homogenous population of college alumnae assessed for health status, athletic history and lifestyle characteristics, we focused on a pre-menopausal subgroup of women in the age range of 40-44 years and with at least one pregnancy. Multivariate analyses were performed to compare sterilized women (n=56/516, 11%) in this subgroup with non-sterilized women (89%). The two groups were alike in mean age, mean parity, body mass index, smoking history, physical activity levels and athletic status. Factors that significantly distinguished sterilized women from non-sterilized women were peri-menopausal symptoms such as flushing, sweating, breast pain, vaginal dryness and pain associated with menstrual cycles. Menopause has been associated with chronic diseases including osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases and cancers. The possible association between tubal sterilization and earlier menopause, and the resulting increase in risk for chronic diseases, have major implications for health care for the aging.
Learning Objectives: To inform and sensitize health professionals of the possible association between tubal sterilization and earlier menopause, with resulting increased of chronic diseases of aging, such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and cancers
Keywords: Menopause, Chronic Diseases
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.