Study of sexual functioning and disorder in women before and after tubal sterilization (tubectomy)

INTRODUCTION: Sexual relationship is a basis for mental health and continuity of the healthy generation. There are very few studies on the female sexual functioning, especially in India. Sterilization being the most common contraceptive method, sexual functioning in women undergoing this surgical intervention has not been adequately explored. Available studies have found conflicting results; some have reported that sterilization has positive effects on sexual functioning since anxiety of getting pregnant is abolished. However, few Indian studies have reported a decline in sexual functioning following the sterilization procedure as women lack interest and perceive sexual function only for the purpose of procreation. The cultural differences and lack of sex education among Indian women are thought to be the reason for such a difference. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of sixty married women above 18 years, who were consulting Family Planning Association, Mysore, for the purpose of undergoing tubal sterilization, and who gave a written consent were interviewed twice; before the sterilization procedure and 6 months post-sterilization. These women were assessed for sexual functioning using female sexual function index and sexual functioning index. RESULTS: The prevalence of sexual dysfunction in the study population was 36.7% before the tubal sterilization. This rate increased to 71.7% after the procedure which was statistically significant. The common disorders were orgasm, arousal, and desire. Pain disorder was least common. This dysfunction exists across all the ages, education level, occupation, and residence. CONCLUSION: The study shows that whatever may be the attribution, tubal sterilization impairs the sexual functioning among women. A proper education and counseling need to be incorporated to prevent the problems.