Psychological factors related to adjustment after tubal ligation

Abstract

Fifteen patients were interviewed before and six months after tubal ligation. There was a significant increase in symptomatic complaints at follow up. There were significant correlations between pre-operation hypochondriasis, number of expectations of post-operation changes, and degree of worry and complaints reported after tubal ligation. Besides, contrary to expectation, a high masculinity score in sex-role stereotype tended to relate with more post-operative complaints. The results imply that reactions to tubal ligation should be investigated in a differentiated perspective.