Sterization patterns in a maternity unit

An evaluation of the characteristics of 425 womwn on whom surgical sterilization were performed revealed that 40% were 35 years or older and 48% had 5 or more children. Thirty-five per cent were Roman Catholics, and there was an equal incidence among the two major ethnic groups of Trinidad. Parental desire was the chief indications for tubal ligation. Complications were few, regardless of the procedure. A plea is made for intensifying efforts in promoting postpartum sterilizations following vaginal delivery, particularly for mothers whose life circumstances would prohibit them from returning for interval sterilization