The Relationship of Tubal Ligation and Risk of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Risk

Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is one of the most common gynecologic problems. The existence of a post tubal ligation syndrome has been debated for decades and there are still discussions on the presence or absence of menstrual abnormalities related to tubal ligation. This study was performed with the aim of evaluating the probable difference of tubal ligation frequency between women with AUB and individuals who doesn’t have such abnormalities. In this case-control study conducted in Bu-Ali hospital gynecology clinic in Tehran during April 2009- June 2001, 300 women with the chief complaint of AUB were compared to 313 women without AUB. Subjects were selected by available sampling method. A questionnaire containing the demographic data, the characteristics of menstrual cycles and the contraception method was completed for each subject. Data was analyzed by using SPSS 11.5 software and Chi-square, one-way ANOVA, Pearson and Mantel-Haenszel tests. The incidence of previous tubal ligation was higher in women with AUB than the control group (22.3% versus 13.4%. OR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.21- 2.8, P=0.004). This difference was also significant after adjustment for age and parity (for parity: OR=1.66, P= 0.028 and for age OR: 1.69, P=0.02). The incidence of previous tubal ligation was higher in women with one abnormal menstrual characteristic out of five criteria (27.3% versus 14.22%. OR: 1.91, 95% CI: 1.22- 3.01, P= 0.03). Results show that there is relationship between tubal ligation and menstrual problems. Further prospective cohort studies with long term follow up are suggested.