Our Summary

This research aimed to understand the differences in the use of reliable birth control methods between black and white women who have heart disease related to pregnancy. The study included women who had at least one prenatal visit and gave birth at the University of Alabama at Birmingham hospital between March 2015 and June 2019.

Reliable contraception was defined as the use of long-lasting, reversible birth control methods such as an IUD or an implant, or a permanent method like sterilization.

The study found that black women were more likely than white women to use reliable contraception after giving birth. Black women were also less likely to be undecided or to refuse contraception.

However, there was no significant difference in reliable contraception use between black and white women with severe types of heart disease (classified as class III/IV by the World Health Organisation).

The authors concluded that efforts to prevent unplanned pregnancies in women with heart disease related to pregnancy should focus on improving the use of reliable contraception, particularly for women with severe types of heart disease.

FAQs

  1. How was reliable contraception defined in this study?
  2. What were the findings of the study on the use of reliable contraception among black and white women?
  3. Did the study find any difference in the use of reliable contraception among women with severe types of heart disease?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about bilateral tubal ligation is that it is a permanent form of contraception and is considered highly effective in preventing pregnancy. It is important for patients to understand that this procedure is not reversible, so they should be sure they do not want to have any more children before undergoing the procedure. Additionally, patients should be aware of the potential risks and side effects associated with bilateral tubal ligation and discuss these with their doctor before making a decision.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended bilateral tubal ligation as a form of permanent contraception include those who have completed their family, have a high risk of complications from pregnancy, have a medical condition that would make pregnancy dangerous, or have a genetic disorder that they do not want to pass on to future children. Additionally, women who are certain they do not want any more children or who want a permanent form of birth control may also be recommended bilateral tubal ligation.

Timeline

Before bilateral tubal ligation:

  1. Patient discusses birth control options with their healthcare provider.
  2. Patient considers various forms of birth control, including long-lasting reversible methods or permanent sterilization.
  3. Patient decides to undergo bilateral tubal ligation as a permanent form of contraception.
  4. Patient schedules and prepares for the surgical procedure.

After bilateral tubal ligation:

  1. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure to have their fallopian tubes tied or blocked.
  2. Patient may experience some discomfort or pain following the procedure.
  3. Patient is advised to rest and avoid strenuous activity for a period of time.
  4. Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for any post-operative care or concerns.
  5. Patient can expect to no longer be at risk of pregnancy due to the permanent nature of bilateral tubal ligation.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about bilateral tubal ligation include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this procedure?
  2. How effective is bilateral tubal ligation in preventing pregnancy?
  3. Are there any alternative birth control methods that may be more suitable for me?
  4. Will bilateral tubal ligation affect my hormone levels or menstrual cycle?
  5. Is there a chance of the procedure failing and me becoming pregnant in the future?
  6. What is the recovery process like after bilateral tubal ligation?
  7. Are there any long-term effects or health risks associated with this procedure?
  8. Will I still need to use other forms of birth control after undergoing bilateral tubal ligation?
  9. How does age or other factors impact the success and safety of this procedure?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes I should consider before or after having bilateral tubal ligation?

Reference

Authors: Oben AG, Walker ZW, Blanchard CT, Szychowski JM, Maier JG, Rajapreyar I, Cribbs MG, Tita A, Sinkey RG. Journal: Eur J Contracept Reprod Health Care. 2022 Jun;27(3):174-179. doi: 10.1080/13625187.2021.2010042. Epub 2021 Dec 6. PMID: 34870553