Quinacrine sterilization (QS) in Costa Rica: 694 cases.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the safety, efficacy and acceptability of quinacrine sterilization (QS) in Costa Rica.

METHODS

From 1989 though August 1993, 694 women volunteered for QS in my private practice. All were referred by a family planning clinic or a local hospital obstetric service. The protocol used involved the transcervical insertion of 216 mg of quinacrine hydrochloride in the form of 6 pellets. A second dose was given 4 weeks later. All insertions were done in the first 14 days of the menstrual cycle. The procedure was similar to the CuT IUD placement. Temporary contraception was recommended for 3 months after the last insertion. The cut-off date for this analysis was April 1994.

RESULTS

With 7 months to 5 years of follow-up, the gross pregnancy rate was 2.5%. Side effects were relatively minor, none requiring hospitalization.

CONCLUSION

QS was found to be safe, effective and acceptable.