Pearl index


Pearl index

(pĕrl), the number of failures of a contraceptive method per 100 woman years of exposure.
A formula that allows comparison of the efficacy of contraceptive methods, calculated as the pregnancy rate in population divided by 100 years of user exposure

Pearl Index

Obstetrics A formula that allows comparison of the efficacy of contraceptive methods, calculated as the pregnancy rate in population divided by 100 yrs of exposure. See Breast feeding, Coitus interruptus, Condoms, Morning-after pill, Contraception, Natural family planning, Norplant, Rhythm method, RU 486. Pearl index–pregnancies/100 years of use Physiologic 15-30/100 years: Coitus interruptus, natural family planning (rhythm or safe period), eg calendar method, evaluation of cervical mucosa or temperature, breast feeding Chemical 15-20/100 years: Contraceptive sponges Barrier 2-20/100 years: Intrauterine devices, condoms Hormonal 1-3/100 years Surgical << 1/100 years: Ligation of fallopian tubes, vas deferens

Pearl in·dex

(pĕrl in'deks) The number of failures of a contraceptive method per 100 woman years of exposure.

Pearl,

Raymond, U.S. biologist, 1879-1940. Pearl index - the number of failures of a contraceptive method per 100 woman years of exposure.