Parity as the Decisive Factor: Predictors of Bilateral Tubal Ligation Choice Among Post-Cesarean Mothers

This study aims to determine the association between maternal age, parity, and selection of Female Sterilization (MOW) among mothers who underwent cesarean section at Graha Sehat Hospital, Kraksaan, Probolinggo. MOW is a highly effective permanent contraceptive method; however, its utilization among post-cesarean mothers remains relatively low despite its safety and effectiveness. This study used an observational analytical case-control design with 60 respondents: 30 mothers who selected MOW (case group) and 30 mothers who did not (control group). We selected respondents through simple random sampling from a population of 150 post-cesarean mothers. We collected data from medical records and analyzed them using the Chi-square test. Most respondents were older than 35 years (76.7%), and 66.7% had a parity of three or fewer. Statistical analysis revealed no significant association between maternal age and MOW selection (p = 0.067). In contrast, parity was significantly associated with MOW selection (p = 0.001), indicating that mothers with higher parity were more likely to choose permanent contraception. These findings highlight parity's importance in contraceptive decision-making. Healthcare providers should strengthen comprehensive counseling regarding the benefits, risks, and permanent nature of MOW to support informed, voluntary, and appropriate contraceptive choices among post-cesarean mothers.