A 26-year-old woman delivered vaginally 48 hours ago and desires permanent sterilization. She is hemodynamically stable with no complications. The most appropriate surgical approach is:
- A Mini-laparotomy (minilap) tubal ligation now ✓
- B Laparoscopic tubal ligation immediately
- C Wait for 6 weeks postpartum for interval laparoscopic sterilization
- D Hysteroscopic sterilization now
Correct answer: A. Mini-laparotomy (minilap) tubal ligation now
Explanation
Postpartum sterilization via mini-laparotomy can be performed within 7 days of vaginal delivery when the uterus is still enlarged, making tubal access easier. Laparoscopic sterilization is deferred to 6 weeks postpartum because the enlarged uterus increases risk of injury in the immediate postpartum period.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.