Reproductive outcome after sterilization reversal in women of advanced reproductive age

Objective: Our objective was to assess the clinical outcome of tubal reversal in women of advanced reproductive age. Methods: A multicenter retrospective chart review of 153 patients who underwent a tubal ligation reversal was carried out. Patients were evaluated according to age. All patients had documented ovulation and a partner with a normal semen analysis by WHO criteria. Outcome measures included rates of clinical pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, spontaneous abortion, and live birth, and the time to conception. Results: Clinical pregnancy rates were significantly lower in women ≥40 compared to younger groups. The time to conception was significantly shorter for women <30 compared to women ≥35. No pregnancies occurred in women ≥42. Conclusions: Our data support the judicious use of sterilization reversal for infertile women with no malefactor through their early forties. Women ≥42 years should be especially counseled as to the very low success rates.