Reproductive history of women with tubal ligation *

Objective: To investigate the obstetric profile of women with tubal ligation and the existence of association with socio-demographic variables and sex. Methods: This is a quantitative and retrospective documentary study, developed in a Natural Birth Center in July 2008 in the city of Fortaleza-CE. The sample was composed by 277 medical records of patients who had tubal ligation. Results: There were a high number of pregnancies associated with: low education, early onset of sexual life, lack of prior use of reversible contraceptive methods, and high frequency of cesarean delivery and abortions. Conclusions: The profile found reaffirms the need of: strengthen the guidance and exchange of information on family planning among health professionals and their patients; encouraging male participation; and, guarantee access to the various contraceptive methods.