Trends in female sterilization in north central Nigeria

Background: Contraception is key to the reduction of maternal mortality. Tubal ligation is a good option for women seeking out a safe, effective, permanent and convenient form of contraceptive. However, due to variety of reasons, there is aversion to it especially in developing world. The objective of this study was to determine the trends, uptake, socio-demographic characteristics of acceptors, indications and complications of bilateral tubal ligation (BTL) in our environment.Methods: A retrospective study of BTL at UATH was conducted over a five year period, from 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2019. The records of women who had BTL were retrieved from the medical records department, family planning clinic, and the theatre. The data was analyzed using SPSS 21.Results: The mean age and parity were 36.0±4.0 and 5.0±2.0 respectively. The incidence of BTL was 1.3%. Majority of those that had BTL had at least secondary level of education 100 (83.4%) and 58 (48.3%) were grand multiparous. Majority of cases 87 (72.5%) were done during caesarean section/laparotomy. Postpartum BTL accounted for 15.0%, while interval BTL accounted for 12.5%. Completed family size was the commonest indication 48.3%. No client came back with regrets. There was one case of failed BTL.Conclusions: BTL is a safe and effective method of sterilization. There is an increasing trend in utilization of BTL however the rate is still low.