Attitudes of women and gynecologists towards voluntary sterilization in Serbia

Introduction. Voluntary sterilization is a very effective and safe birth control method. Is it, however, accepted as a birth control method in Serbia? This is certainly a question that should be explored, regardless of the fact that voluntary sterilization is neither accessible nor promoted. Material and methods. The target group included women who decided to terminate their pregnancy, and gynecologists from various parts of Serbia. Results and disussion. The survey results indicate that more than half of women believe that voluntary sterilization should be available in Serbia. Also, a large number of surveyed women, almost half of them, would undergo voluntary sterilization. Younger women, respondents with secondary education, those who gave birth to a desired number of children, as well as those who have a good relationship with their partners, those who have experienced a great number of induced abortions, namely those who wish to use contraception in the future, are more open to voluntary sterilization. The majority of gynecologists also think that voluntary sterilization should become available in Serbia. Most of them consider therapeutic and eugenic reasons as appropriate for surgical sterilization. However, gynecologists lack current knowledge about this contraceptive method, and would not accept to use voluntary sterilization themselves. Conclusion. The reasons for individual nonacceptance indicate that many of the registered ambivalent or negative opinions can be changed by spreading knowledge on voluntary sterilization. Moreover, the knowledge of gynecologists about voluntary sterilization should be improved as well.