The rate of ectopic pregnancy for 24,589 quinacrine sterilization (QS) users compared to users of other methods and no method in 4 provinces in Vietnam, 1994-1996.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the rates of ectopic pregnancy with the use of quinacrine sterilization (QS) compared to other methods and no method (non-users).

METHODS

Four provinces were selected for their above average numbers of women who had undergone QS: Nam Dinh, Nam Ha, Hai Duong and Hung Yen. Case histories related to surgical treatment of all ectopic pregnancies in these 4 provinces from 1994 through 1996 were collected from all hospitals by researchers from the Ministry of Health in June 1997. Using a questionnaire designed for this study, 120 physicians interviewed every woman in her home who had had an ectopic pregnancy during this period. If deceased, a family member was consulted. All interviews were completed in September 1998. The numbers of users of each method and nonusers were calculated from service statistics and demographic data.

RESULTS

Based on 2,551,355 woman-years of exposure, the rate of ectopic pregnancy among users per 1000 woman-years was calculated to be: 0.26 with QS; 0.42 with surgical sterilization (TL) and IUD; 0.45 with the Pill; 0.50 with condoms; 0.78 relying on withdrawal; and 1.18 among non-users.

CONCLUSION

Ectopic pregnancy rates for QS, TL, IUD and the Pill were similar and much lower than the rate for non-users of contraception.