Desire for reversal after tubal sterilization in the United States, 2006–2023

Abstract

Objective

To describe trends in the prevalence of tubal sterilization and subsequent desire for reversal among US women and identify sociodemographic factors associated with desires for reversal.

Design

Nationally representative data were collected from US women between 2006 and 2023 in a series of six cross-sectional waves of the National Survey of Family Growth. We employed weighted logistic regression models to assess associations between sociodemographic variables and outcomes of interest.

Subjects

Nationally representative samples of US women aged 15–49 surveyed between 2006 and 2023.

Exposure

Sociodemographic variables including age at interview, race and ethnicity, health insurance status, poverty level, education, marital status, parity, and timing of sterilization.

Main Outcome Measures

Tubal sterilization, desire for tubal reversal surgery, and experience with tubal reversal surgery.

Results

In 2022–2023, 21.3% of US individuals who had undergone tubal sterilization reported a desire for reversal. Only 0.1% of those who desired reversal had undergone reversal surgery. Rates of tubal sterilization and desired reversal were higher in prior years; in 2006, a desire for reversal surgery was reported by 26.8% of respondents. Desire for reversal was more likely among nulliparous individuals, those younger than 30 years, those living below the federal poverty level, and among Hispanic and Black women compared with White, non-Hispanic women.

Conclusion

One of every five US individuals who undergo tubal sterilization subsequently reports a desire for reversal. As <1% of those who desire reversal obtain reversal surgery, efforts to support informed decision-making before permanent contraceptive surgery remain important.