What increased risk is associated with female sterilization performed before age 30?

Female sterilization performed before age 30 is associated with an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy primarily due to the possibility of retained sperm or potential for reversal of the sterilization procedure, which might lead to an unintended intrauterine pregnancy that is not properly located. When a woman has undergone sterilization, there is a small risk that, if pregnancy does occur, it may not implant in the womb and instead implant in another location, such as the fallopian tubes, which is known as an ectopic pregnancy.

The risk of ectopic pregnancy can be particularly relevant for younger women, as they may have a longer duration of fertility ahead of them, during which the effects of the procedure could influence the occurrence of ectopic pregnancies more prominently. Therefore, the timing of the sterilization plays a significant role in this risk factor.

While there are other risks associated with certain gynecological conditions and surgeries, ectopic pregnancy is the most strongly correlated outcome linked specifically with female sterilization at a young age.