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No. There is no need to use a back-up method for contraceptive purposes.
However, female sterilization offers no protection against Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). For women who are at risk of STDs following a sterilization, protection should be recommended.
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Sterilization is immediately effective. Women may resume having intercourse a week after the procedure, or when it is comfortable, without the need for a contraceptive.
Clients should be encouraged to use barrier methods (e.g., condoms) when they are at risk for these diseases. Two studies conducted in the U.S. found poor use of condoms by sterilized women with potential risk factors for STDs/HIV. Both studies point out the need for counseling about client and partner behaviors associated with STD/HIV infection, and the use of condoms for prevention of infection, not just as a contraceptive.
- Santelli JS, Burwell LG, Rozsenich C, Augustyn M, Celentano DD, et al. Surgical sterilization among women and use of condoms-Baltimore, 1989-1990. MMWR 1992;41:568-75.
- Armstrong KA, Samost L, Tavris DR. HIV-risk behaviors of sterilized and nonsterilized women in drug treatment programs-Philadelphia, 1989-1991. MMWR 1992;41:149-51.
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