Emotional reaction to sterilization.

Ninety-four patients sterilized by tubal occlusion were interviewed at the time of hospitalization for surgery and followed at scheduled intervals for a 2-year period. There were no serious problems, medical or psychologic, and all but 3 patients were pleased and satisfied at the end of 2 years. There were no technical failures. Psychosomatic symptoms do develop. They are more prominent and persist longer in the younger age group. Patients having these symptoms are those who had difficulty with contraceptive technics, have a limited understanding of the sterilization procedure, and continue to question its permanency. The need for preoperative evaluation and counseling is emphasized.