Sociodemographic predictors of postvasectomy noncompliance
Received 10 April 2009; received in revised form 15 May 2009; accepted 20 May 2009. published online 13 July 2009.
Abstract
Background
Postvasectomy semen analysis (PVSA) is critical to establish the success of the vasectomy but the rate of compliance with PVSA is notoriously low. We determined various sociodemographic predictors of high noncompliance rate.
Study design
Retrospective chart review of 214 patients who have undergone vasectomy by one surgeon was performed. All men had similar preoperative consultation with written instruction to provide two PVSA 2 and 4 months after vasectomy. Noncompliance was defined as a failure to provide PVSA. Sociodemographic data including age, marital status, number of children, level of education and smoking history were analyzed.
Results
Of 214 patients, 99 (46.2%) provided no PVSA. Rate of noncompliance was independently higher in men with four or more children, smokers and those with lower educational level. Marital status and age had no impact on postoperative compliance
Conclusion
Objective sociodemographic variables were associated with a higher risk of PVSA noncompliance. A more thorough approach to vasectomy counseling and timely reminder of upcoming PVSA in a preoperatively defined group of patients will help to improve compliance and prevent possible medical and legal repercussions.
ABSTRACT