Prevalence of vasectomy and tubal ligation: time series analysis Brazil, 2006-2019.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the temporal trends in the prevalence of vasectomy and tubal ligation in 2006, 2013, and 2019 according to sociodemographic characteristics of the Brazilian population of reproductive age.

METHODS

A time series analysis was conducted using secondary data from three comparable national surveys that investigated the reproductive planning of Brazilian women. The prevalence of partner-reported vasectomy and tubal ligation was estimated with 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

An increase in the prevalence of partners' vasectomy was observed, from 4.2% to 5.6% among all women, and from 5.2% to 7.8% among those living with a partner, between 2013 and 2019. A decrease in tubal ligation prevalence was observed, from 32.2% to 17.3% among all women, and from 36.3% to 21.8% among those living with a partner, between 2006 and 2019. Black and Brown (Brazilian mixed race) women (2006 - 37.1%; 2013 - 27.2%; 2019 - 20.6%), those who had attended elementary school (2006 - 43.4%; 2013 - 36.8%; 2019 - 30.8%), living in rural areas (2006 - 40.0%; 2013 - 33.0%; 2019 - 26.8%), and who had three births (2006 - 64.2%; 2013 - 54.0%; 2019 - 44.1%) showed higher tubal ligation prevalence throughout the analyzed period. Women with private health insurance (2006 - 9.0%; 2013 - 6.2%; 2019 - 8.6%) reported higher vasectomy prevalence among their partners.

CONCLUSION

Despite the progress observed through the increased prevalence of vasectomy and the reduction of tubal ligation, gender and social inequalities regarding the use of these methods persist, highlighting the need to expand equitable access to long-acting contraceptive methods in the country.