Sterilisation or hysterectomy for mentally retarded patients

Abstract

Mental retardation is characterized by significantly sub-average intellectual functioning (IQ of approximately 70 or below), with onset before age 18 years and concurrent deficits of impairment in adoptive functioning in at least two of the following skills areas: communication, self-care, home living, social/interpersonal skills, use of community resources, self-direction, functional academic skills, work, leisure, health and safety. Young women with mental retardation present a unique set of reproductive health concerns to both the physician and caregiver. They have varying levels of understanding of reproduction, contraception and sexuality and varying levels of ability to care for themselves and to make informed decisions.