Female sterilization with quinacrine using hysterosalpingography (HSG) as an endpoint after a single-insertion protocol in Caracas, Venezuela

Objective: To evaluate the intrauterine insertion of quinacrine as an alternative nonsurgical female sterilization method by confirming bilateral occlusion of the fallopian tubes using HSG in a group of women who desire permanent sterilization. Methods: After doing hysterosalpingography to confirm patency of both fallopian tubes, 324 mg of quinacrine were introduced with a modified IUD inserter in 30 patients who came to Concepcion Palacios Maternity Hospital seeking permanent sterilization, between June 2000 and September 2001. Follow-up with HSG was done 3 months later to verify occlusion of the fallopian tubes. Results: 26 of 30 patients (86%) had bilateral tubal occlusion as determined by HSG. There were minor side effects such as: pain (66.7%), yellow discharge (100%) and menstrual abnormalities (13.3%). One woman became pregnant after HSG showed bilateral occlusion. HSG may interfere with the action of the quinacrine. Conclusion: QS is a simple and safe alternative to surgical sterilization with few side effects. (C) 2003 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.