Health during prolonged use of levonorgestrel 20 micrograms/d and the copper TCu 380Ag intrauterine contraceptive devices: a multicenter study. International Committee for Contraception Research (ICCR)

Levonorgestrel intrauterine device and depression: A Swedish register-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

The levonorgestrel intrauterine device (LNG-IUD) is traditionally viewed as a safe contraceptive with limited systemic effects. However, three recent studies have indicated an increased risk of depression subsequent to LNG-IUD use. This study aimed to examine the potential associated risk between LNG-IUDs and depression, and determine which women are at risk.

METHODS

This longitudinal cohort study was based on data from seven Swedish national population-based registers. All Nordic-born women aged 15-24 years residing in Sweden between 2010 and 2017 were included. Cox regression was implemented to estimate the adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) for developing depression, defined as first depression diagnosis or redeemed prescription for antidepressant treatment. We adjusted for age, education level, parental country of origin, parental psychiatric health, previous hormonal contraceptive use and medical indications for contraceptive use.

FINDINGS

703,157 women were included in the analysis. The LNG-IUD was associated with 57 % increased risk of depression [AHR 1.57 (95 % CI 1.51-1.64)]. The greatest risk increase was seen in adolescent women [AHR 2.57, (95 % CI 2.36-2.80)] and women who used the LNG-IUD as their first hormonal contraceptive method [AHR 1.63, (95 % CI 1.50-1.78)]. The risk of depression decreased at the end of study period [AHR 1.43, (95 % CI 1.36-1.51)], once the LNG-IUD became more widely accessible among nulliparous women.

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescent women who use the LNG-IUD as their first-ever hormonal contraceptive are at increased risk of developing depression. However, additional impact from confounding factors is likely as risk estimates decreased over the study period. Further research needs to determine if there is a causal relationship between LNG-IUDs and depression.

The potential association between psychiatric symptoms and the use of levonorgestrel intrauterine devices (LNG-IUDs): A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Levonorgestrel (LNG)-intrauterine devices (IUDs) are an effective method of contraception; however, there is growing evidence regarding potential psychiatric side effects such as depressive symptoms, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Therefore, we conducted this systematic review to summarise the psychiatric effects of using LNG-IUDs.

METHODS

We searched six databases (MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, Cochrane Library, and PsycInfo), and we included all study designs. The included studies were extracted, quality assessed, and qualitatively summarised.

RESULTS

Out of the screened studies, only 22 were finally included. While ten studies showed increased depressive symptoms, two studies showed reduced symptoms. Moreover, one study showed increased anxiety, another one reported an increased risk of suicide, four studies concluded no association with depressive symptoms, and four other studies showed uncertainty about a potential association but mentioned other psychiatric symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Despite unreliable data, many studies report psychiatric symptoms associated with LNG-IUDs, predominantly depression. Gynaecologists, general practitioners, and psychiatrists should therefore be aware of these potential risks, especially depressive symptoms and suicidality. Counselling patients about these risks should be mandatory. Further studies should investigate the absolute risk of mental disorders associated with LNG-IUDs and other hormonal contraceptives.KEY MESSAGESMany researchers are reporting adverse psychiatric events associated with levonorgestrel intrauterine devices (LNG-IUDs).Despite their effectiveness, a proper psychiatric assessment should be done before inserting LNG-IUDs.Proper counselling regarding the depressive symptoms and suicidality should be done by the treating obstetrician.Further studies should investigate the absolute risk of mental disorders associated with LNG-IUDs and other hormonal contraceptives.

Complications of Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptive Modalities

ABSTRACT

Long-acting reversible contraception has risen in popularity in recent decades and is becoming one of the more common modalities of contraception in the United States, with a growing adolescent population among its users. The 2 modalities of long-acting reversible contraception-intrauterine devices and subcutaneous hormonal implants/etonogestrel implants (referred to as Nexplanon in the US)-are beneficial for their excellent effectiveness, ease of use, and safety profile. This article reviews the pharmacology of these modalities, common complications and their presentations, and the initial evaluation and management in the pediatric emergency department setting. Where applicable, attention will be paid to problems unique to the adolescent population.

Factors associated with early pregnancy anemia in rural Sri Lanka: Does being 'under care' iron out socioeconomic disparities?

Globally, more than a third of pregnant women are anemic, and progress in its prevention and control is slow. Sri Lanka is a lower-middle-income country with a unique public health infrastructure that provides multiple interventions across the lifecycle for anemia prevention, despite which anemia in pregnancy remains a challenge. Studying the factors associated with maternal anemia in this context would provide unique information on challenges and opportunities encountered as low-and-middle-income countries attempt to control anemia by improving health care coverage. All first-trimester pregnant women registered for antenatal care in the Anuradhapura district between July 2019 to September 2019 were invited to participate in the baseline of a cohort study. Interviewer-administered and self-completed questionnaires were used. Anemia was defined using a full blood count. A hierarchical logistic regression model was built to identify factors associated with anemia. Out of 3127 participants, 451 (14.4%) were anemic. According to the regression model (Chi-square = 139.3, p<0.001, n = 2692), the odds of being anemic increased with the Period of gestation (PoG) (OR = 1.07, 95% CI = 1.01-1.13). While controlling for PoG, age and parity, history of anemia (OR = 3.22, 95%CI = 2.51-4.13), being underweight (OR = 1.64, 95%CI = 1.24-2.18), having the last pregnancy five or more years back (OR = 1.57,95%CI = 1.15-2.15) and having used intrauterine devices for one year or more (OR = 1.63, 95%CI = 1.16-2.30) increased the odds of anemia. Breast feeding during the last year (OR = 0.66, 95%CI = 0.49-0.90) and having used contraceptive injections for one year or more (OR = 0.61,95%CI = 0.45-0.83) reduced the risk of anemia. Proxy indicators of being in frequent contact with the national family health program have a protective effect over the socioeconomic disparities in preventing early pregnancy anemia. Maintaining the continuum of care through the lifecycle, especially through optimizing pre and inter-pregnancy care provision should be the way forward for anemia control.

The combined use of endometrial ablation or resection and levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system in women with heavy menstrual bleeding: A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Despite endometrial ablation/resection being a very successful treatment for women with heavy menstrual bleeding, re-intervention with additional surgery is needed in 12%-25% of cases. Introducing a levonorgestrel-intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) immediately after ablation could preserve the integrity of the uterine cavity and suppress the regenerated or non-ablated endometrial tissue. Therefore, this combined treatment can perhaps lower the re-intervention rate. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the impact of the combined treatment.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane library were systematically searched. No language restrictions were applied. All types of studies were included reporting on the results of endometrial ablation or resection combined with immediate insertion of LNG-IUS for treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding. The primary outcome was the number of hysterectomies after the ablation procedure. Secondary outcomes included re-intervention rates, removals of LNG-IUS, bleeding pattern, patient satisfaction, adverse effects, and complications. Our protocol was registered in PROSPERO, an international prospective register of systematic reviews under registration number CRD42020151384.

RESULTS

Six studies with a retrospective design and one case series with a follow-up duration varying from 6 to 55 months were included. In total, 427 women were treated with the combined treatment. The studies described a lower hysterectomy and re-intervention rate after combined treatment compared with treatment with endometrial ablation/resection alone. Hysterectomy rate varied from 0% to 11% after combined treatment compared with 9.4% to 24% after endometrial ablation/resection alone. Bleeding patterns and patient satisfaction appeared to be in favor of the combined treatment group. No intra- or post-operative complications or complications in the removal of LNG-IUS were described. The most reported adverse effects after combined treatment were weight gain, mood changes, and headaches. An additional 11 studies with only an abstract available substantiated these findings. All the included studies had poor methodological quality.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the available literature, inserting an LNG-IUS immediately after endometrial ablation/resection seems to lower the hysterectomy and re-intervention rates compared with ablation/resection alone. However, as only limited observational studies of low methodological quality are available, high-quality research is necessary to confirm the findings of this systematic review.

Contraception in chronic kidney disease: a best practice position statement by the Kidney and Pregnancy Group of the Italian Society of Nephrology

Even though fertility is reduced, conception and delivery are possible in all stages of CKD. While successful planned pregnancies are increasing, an unwanted pregnancy may have long-lasting deleterious effects, hence the importance of birth control, an issue often disregarded in clinical practice. The evidence summarized in this position statement is mainly derived from the overall population, or other patient categories, in the lack of guidelines specifically addressed to CKD. Oestroprogestagents can be used in early, non-proteinuric CKD, excluding SLE and immunologic disorders, at high risk of thromboembolism and hypertension. Conversely, progestin only is generally safe and its main side effect is intramestrual spotting. Non-medicated intrauterine devices are a good alternative; their use needs to be carefully evaluated in patients at a high risk of pelvic infection, even though the degree of risk remains controversial. Barrier methods, relatively efficacious when correctly used, have few risks, and condoms are the only contraceptives that protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Surgical sterilization is rarely used also because of the risks surgery involves; it is not definitely contraindicated, and may be considered in selected cases. Emergency contraception with high-dose progestins or intrauterine devices is not contraindicated but should be avoided whenever possible, even if far preferable to abortion. Surgical abortion is invasive, but experience with medical abortion in CKD is still limited, especially in the late stages of the disease. In summary, personalized contraception is feasible, safe and should be offered to all CKD women of childbearing age who do not want to get pregnant.

Misconceptions and Beliefs Regarding the Use of Intrauterine Devices for Nulliparous Women Among Chinese Health Care Providers

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To investigate the knowledge and beliefs regarding the use of intrauterine devices (IUDs) for nulliparous women among Chinese health care providers and assess the potential factors related to their misconceptions and conservative beliefs. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANT, INTERVENTIONS, AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: A self-administered survey was conducted at 2 Chinese national academic conferences in 2015. The questionnaire data obtained from 103 health care providers were analyzed to examine the providers' knowledge regarding the safety and effectiveness of IUDs and the complications associated with IUD use, as well as their beliefs regarding the suitability of IUDs for nulliparous women. An ordinal logistic regression model was used to evaluate the potential factors related to their beliefs.

RESULTS

Misconceptions about the complications associated with IUD use were common among our respondents, and they were least likely to know that IUDs do not increase the risk of developing pelvic inflammatory disease (26/97) or ectopic pregnancy (23/102) (22.5%-26.8%). Only approximately 10% of the providers believed that adolescents (9/94) or unmarried nulliparas (10/95) could be candidates for IUDs. In contrast, they were more likely (37/96, 38.5%) to consider married nulliparous women as appropriate candidates (P < .001). Misconceptions about the complications of IUD use were associated with more conservative beliefs regarding IUD use for nulliparous women (adjusted odds ratio, 1.34; 95% confidence interval, 1.00-1.79).

CONCLUSION

The health care providers' insufficient knowledge regarding IUDs contributed to their outdated and conservative beliefs about the suitability of IUDs for nulliparous women. In addition, the difference in the providers' beliefs regarding IUD use for married and unmarried nulliparous women might reflect the stigma associated with premarital sex in Chinese traditional culture.

[Follow-up and counselling after pelvic inflammatory disease: CNGOF and SPILF Pelvic Inflammatory Diseases Guidelines]

OBJECTIVES

To determine the procedures for follow-up and counselling of patients after pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

METHODS

A search in the Cochrane database, PubMed, and Google was performed using keywords related to follow-up and PID to identify reports published between 1990 and 2018. All studies published in French and English relevant to the areas of focus were included. A level of evidence (LE) based on the quality of the data available was applied for each area of focus and used for the guidelines.

RESULTS

The rate of recurrent PID is 15 to 21%. They are related to a recurrent sexually transmitted infection (STI) in 20 to 34% of cases. Recurrence PID increase the risk of infertility and chronic pelvic pain (LE2). Follow-up is recommended after PID (grade C). The rate of patients lost to follow-up is around 40%. Follow-up is improved by personalized text message reminders (grade B). Vaginal sampling for detection of N. gonorrhoeae, C. trachomatis, (and M. genitalium) by nucleic acid amplification techniques is recommended 3 to 6 months after treatment of PID associated with STI to rule out possible reinfections (grade C). The use of condoms after PID associated with STI is recommended to reduce the risk of recurrences (grade C). The systematic use of contraceptive pills after PID is not recommended to prevent subsequent infertility and chronic pelvic pain. Vaginal sampling for microbiological diagnosis is recommended before the insertion of an intrauterine device (grade B). The risk of ectopic pregnancy is high in these women and must be kept in mind.

CONCLUSION

Patient counselling and microbiological testing after PID decrease the risk of STI and thus the recurrence of PID.

Attitudes and practices related to intrauterine devices for nulliparous women among Chinese health care providers

BACKGROUND

Unintended pregnancy and induced abortion among young (unmarried or nulliparous) women have become serious social and health issues in China, which are thought to partly result from low use of long-acting reversible contraception, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs). Considering that providers may play an especially important role in increasing use of this particular method, we investigated Chinese health care providers' attitudes and practices regarding IUDs use for nulliparous women, and further examine the potential factors and reasons contributing to their attitudes and practices.

METHODS

We recruited health care providers at two Chinese national academic conferences and surveyed them about knowledge of IUDs, willingness to recommend IUDs to nulliparous women, and their related practices. Modified Poisson regression was used to examine the potential factors related to their attitudes and practices.

RESULTS

Approximately a half of respondents reported unwillingness to recommend IUDs to nulliparous women. Providers with more misperceptions about the safety and contraindications were more likely to be unwilling to recommend IUDs to nulliparous women. Moreover, 71.0% of respondents rarely or never recommended or provided IUDs to nulliparous women. Providers' unwillingness to recommend IUDs to nulliparous women was associated with their infrequent practices (aPR=1.43; 95% CI: 1.04, 1.96). In addition to concerns about the side effects or complications, traditional sexual concept against premarital sex was often cited as a reason by Chinese health providers for their negative attitudes towards IUDs use for nulliparous women, a large proportion of whom are unmarried.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that negative attitudes and infrequent practices regarding IUDs use for nulliparous women are common in Chinese health care providers. Moreover, misperceptions about IUDs, as well as traditional sexual concept, contribute to Chinese health care providers' negative attitudes towards IUDs use for nulliparous women, and may further reduce their provision. Educational interventions are needed to improve providers' accurate knowledge of IUDs and fill the gap between traditional sexual concept and young women's needs of contraceptive services.

[Intrauterine contraception: CNGOF Contraception Guidelines]

OBJECTIVE

To provide national clinical guidelines focusing on intrauterine contraception.

METHODS

A systematic review of available literature was performed using Pubmed and Cochrane libraries. American, British and Canadian guidelines were considered as well.

RESULTS

Intrauterine contraception (IUC) displays a wide panel of indications, including adolescents, nulliparous, patients living with HIV before AIDS (Grade B) and women with history of ectopic pregnancy (Grade C). Cervical cancer screening should not be modified in women with IUC (Grade B). Bimanual examination and cervix inspection are mandatory before device insertion (Grade B). Patients should not systematically undergo screening for sexually transmitted infections (STI) before device insertion (Grade B). Screening for STI should be preferably done before insertion but it can be performed at the time of device insertion in asymptomatic women (Grade B). Routine antibiotic prophylaxis and premedication are not recommended before insertion (Grade A). A follow-up visit may be offered several weeks after insertion (Professional consensus). Routine pelvic ultrasound examination in not recommended after device insertion (Grade B). In patients with IUC, unscheduled bleeding, when persistent or associated with pelvic pain, requires further investigation to rule out complication (Professional agreement). Suspected uterine perforation warrants radiological workup to locate the device (Professional consensus). Laparoscopic approach should be preferred for elective removal of intrauterine device from abdominal cavity (Professional consensus). In case of accidental pregnancy with intrauterine device in situ, ectopic pregnancy should be excluded (Grade B). In case of viable and desired intrauterine pregnancy, intrauterine device removal is recommended if the strings are reachable (Grade C). Detection of Actinomyces-like organisms on pap smear in asymptomatic patients with intrauterine contraception does not require further intervention (Grade B). Immediate removal of intrauterine device is not recommended in case of STI or pelvic inflammatory disease (Grade B). Device removal should be considered in the absence of clinical improvement after 48 to 72 hours of appropriate treatment (Grade B).

CONCLUSION

Intrauterine contraception is a long-acting and reversible contraception method displaying great efficacy and high continuation rate. In contrast, complication rate is low. It should thus be offered to both nulliparous and multiparous women.

Compliance and user satisfaction with the intra-uterine contraceptive device in Family Planning Service: The results of a survey in Fife, Scotland, August 2004

OBJECTIVES

The study was designed to assess user satisfaction and duration of use of intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) in Fife.

METHODS

A questionnaire was given to 254 women attending a Fife Family Planning Clinic, in whom an IUD had been fitted over 3 years ago, with a 71% response rate.

RESULTS

The majority of respondents were over age 30 years (81%) and parous (91%). The most frequently used IUD was the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS: 39%), with the rest of the coils being an assortment of copper-medicated coils. Side effects were common, occurring in 92% of users and compliance was low, with 23% using for less than 1 year. Comparisons between LNG-IUS and other IUD-users showed similar side-effects, although mood disorders were higher with LNG-IUS.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall satisfaction rates with the family planning service were high. Methods to improve IUD uptake and compliance are needed, particularly in younger women and nulliparous women.

Levonorgestrel-releasing intra-uterine systems as female contraceptives

INTRODUCTION

The availability and use of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), such as levonorgestrel intrauterine systems (LNG-IUSs), have increased in recent times.

AREAS COVERED

The authors provide a narrative review of the LNG-IUSs currently available worldwide as female contraceptives (LNG-IUS 13.5, 19.5 and 52 mg). Specific features of the devices and their parameters of efficacy and tolerability were considered as outcomes.

EXPERT OPINION

The one-handed 3.8-mm-diameter inserter of LNG-IUS 13.5 mg and 19.5 mg may be particularly suitable in nulliparous women. While LNG-IUSs 13.5, 19.5 mg and LNG 52 mg should be used by women simply looking for an effective contraceptive method for up to 3, 4 or 5 years, LNG-IUS 52 mg has also been approved for the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding and endometrial protection during hormone replacement therapy. LNG-IUS 52 mg is ideal for women who are experiencing a certain hyperestrogenic hormonal environment, with heavy menstrual bleeding due to hormonal imbalances, adenomyosis or fibroids, in the case of symptomatic endometriosis or for endometrial protection during hormone estrogenic replacement therapy in non-hysterectomized women.

A viable caesarean scar pregnancy in a woman using a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device: a case report

BACKGROUND

Although the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device (LNG-IUD) is one of the most reliable methods of contraception, it is associated with an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy in case of unintended pregnancy. A rare form of ectopic pregnancy is the caesarean scar pregnancy (CSP), with a high risk of serious maternal morbidity, such as uterine rupture, massive haemorrhage and resulting infertility. This report describes the first case of a viable CSP at 13 weeks of gestation in association with the use of a LNG-IUD. Case-presentation: A 36-year-old Caucasian woman was referred to our outpatient clinic because of suspicion of a CSP. The pregnancy was unintended and was diagnosed during replacement of the LNG-IUD after five years. The patient had undergone two caesarean sections in the past. Ultrasound investigation showed an intact pregnancy of approximately 13 weeks of gestation located in the uterine scar. Because of the size of the gestational sac, a laparotomy was performed under general anaesthesia using a Joel-Cohen incision. The procedure was complicated by a total blood loss of 1500 mL, mostly caused by diffuse bleeding from the placental bed.

CONCLUSION

Unintended pregnancies in women using a LNG-IUD are frequently ectopic pregnancies with a preponderance to nidate outside the fallopian tube. Therefore, early diagnosis and location of the pregnancy in women using a LNG-IUD is essential.

The role of levonorgestrel intrauterine systems in the treatment of symptomatic fibroids

Uterine fibroids are considered to be the most frequently occurring tumours in females. The majority of fibroids do not require any treatment. When symptomatic, the major ailments include abnormal uterine bleeding, painful menstruation, pelvic pressure or pain, urinary problems, constipation, infertility, and recurrent pregnancy loss. Surgery remains a mainstay of symptomatic uterine fibroids therapy; however, minimally-invasive techniques and pharmacological management have become more available. The levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) is a T-shaped device with a vertical stem containing a reservoir of levonorgestrel and is widely known for its contraception effect. Moreover, the non-contraceptive benefits of the LNG-IUS have been previously confirmed by numerous studies. LNG-IUS causes reduction of the duration and the amount of menstrual bleeding, with minimal side effects due to release of hormones at the targeted organ. Currently, results from systematic reviews show that LNG-IUS may be an effective and safe treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids in premenopausal women. However, further studies are required to consolidate the usage of LNG-IUS in the treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids.

Non-contraceptive benefits of intrauterine levonorgestrel administration: why not?

Levonorgestrel intrauterine systems (LNG-IUS) represent a modern therapy for an array of preexisting gynecological conditions, though they were first marketed in Finland in 1990. However, there are countries in which their use is extremely limited by social and cultural factors. This manuscript describes the possible reasons for this misuse, taking in consideration the clinical noncontraceptive benefits of intrauterine levonorgestrel in routinary practice. Medical diseases in which LNG-IUS represent a treatment include abnormal uterine bleeding, iron-deficiency anemia, endometrial hyperplasia, uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, and coagulopathies. The advantage of reducing the need for more radical treatments such as surgery or hysterectomy is well demonstrated, with remarkable benefits for patients. However, in many countries, surgery is still used as a first-line treatment and there is a need to define who could benefit from a less invasive option. It seems clear that such a reduced use of LNG-IUS depends on factors that imply both patients and practitioners, and that the role of counseling is becoming a key component in the decision-making process to reach the ultimate goal of compliance.

Practice Bulletin No. 186: Long-Acting Reversible Contraception: Implants and Intrauterine Devices

Intrauterine devices and contraceptive implants, also called long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC), are the most effective reversible contraceptive methods. The major advantage of LARC compared with other reversible contraceptive methods is that they do not require ongoing effort on the part of the patient for long-term and effective use. In addition, after the device is removed, the return of fertility is rapid (1, 2). The purpose of this Practice Bulletin is to provide information for appropriate patient selection and evidence-based recommendations for LARC initiation and management. The management of clinical challenges associated with LARC use is beyond the scope of this document and is addressed in Committee Opinion No. 672, Clinical Challenges of Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptive Methods (3).

Pregnancy outcomes associated with extended use of the 52-mg 20 μg/day levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system beyond 60 months: A chart review of 776 women in Brazil

OBJECTIVE

To assess the contraceptive performance of the 52-mg 20 μg/day levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS, Mirena; Bayer Oy, Turku, Finland) among women who maintain the same device without changes after 60 months.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a chart review study in which we assessed the charts of 766 women who continue the same LNG-IUS for contraception beyond 60 months. The women were evaluated at the Family Planning clinic, University of Campinas Medical School, Campinas, SP, Brazil, from November 1990 to March 2011. We obtained sociodemographic data, duration of use, continuation and discontinuation rates and reasons, bleeding pattern at the recorded last visit. The statistical analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 776 charts were identified of women who used the LNG-IUS beyond 60 months. The mean age (±S.E.M.) at LNG-IUS placement was 32.0±0.2 years (ranged 15 to 44 years; median was 32 years). The distribution of number of pregnancies was 0-1 (45%); 2-4 (54.1%) and≥5 (0.9%). The median length of the LNG-IUS' use was 73 months after placement (ranged 61-184 months). Zero pregnancies were reported and the main reasons for discontinuation were expiration of approved effective lifespan, menopause and planning pregnancy. The cumulative women-years (W-Y) of exposure were 967 and 1403 up to seven and 15 years, respectively. The main bleeding pattern reported by the women was amenorrhea.

CONCLUSIONS

The 52-mg 20 μg/day LNG-IUD (Mirena) showed continue contraceptive efficacy beyond 5 years of use with no pregnancies detected over 967 and 1403 W-Y up to seven and 15 years after placement.

IMPLICATIONS STATEMENT

The 52-mg 20 μg/day LNG-IUD presented a very high contraceptive efficacy beyond the first 5 years of lifetime labeled. Increasing data support that efficacy beyond 5 years of use, and new data suggested efficacy as long as 15 years. Healthcare professionals, policy makers and stakeholders could take advantage of the present information to decide to maintain the same device at least up to seven years. Furthermore, amenorrhea could be a good indicator of contraceptive effect.

Non-surgical Management of Myomas

Uterine myomas are a common condition and the leading cause of hysterectomy. Clinically, myomas can be challenging because they range from asymptomatic to causing severe, debilitating symptoms and occur in many women before childbearing is complete. Thus, women often seek uterine-conserving and nonsurgical management of their myomas. In this review the available uterine-conserving treatment options from medical management through minimally invasive procedures are discussed. To the extent of research available, the sustainability of symptom improvement and the effects on future fertility are reviewed. Future research may lead to therapies that reduce the risks of major surgery, decrease side effects, and offer primary or secondary prevention options.

User characteristics, experiences and continuation rates of copper intrauterine device use in a cohort of Australian women

BACKGROUND

Copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD) use in Australia is low despite being a highly effective, cost effective non-hormonal contraceptive with reported 12-month continuation rates of 85% compared to 59% for oral contraception.

AIMS

To describe the characteristics of Cu-IUD users in the Australian context, their experiences of side effects, continuation rates and reasons for discontinuation.

METHODS

Between August 2009 and January 2012 we undertook a prospective cohort study of consecutive women presenting for Cu-IUD insertion to three family planning clinics in Queensland and New South Wales. We used survival analysis for continuation rates and univariate and multivariable analyses to characterise users, their experiences up to three years and reasons for discontinuation.

RESULTS

Of the 211 enrolled women, a third (36.0%) were aged under 30 and a third were nulliparous (36.5%). Efficacy and lack of hormones were the most frequently cited reasons to choose the method. Four women were lost to follow-up. Overall continuation rates were 79.1% at one year and 61.3% at three years. Early discontinuation was reduced in those with two or more children (adjusted hazards ratio 0.22, 95% CI 0.09-0.50). Heavy menstrual bleeding was the commonest reason for removal in 28 of 59 (47.5%) discontinuations due to complications or side effects. One uterine perforation and one method failure resulting in an ectopic pregnancy occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Cu-IUDs were chosen for their efficacy and lack of hormones by a range of Australian women, including young and nulliparous women. While bleeding-related side effects were relatively common, overall continuation rates were high. Serious complications and failures were rare.

The Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System: Long-Term Contraception and Therapeutic Effects

The levonorgestrel intrauterine system (Mirena®) has been developed as a long-acting method of contraception. This medicated device, inserted into the uterus, delivers a small daily dose of a progestin, levonorgestrel, into the uterine cavity. It is one of the most effective methods of contraception and is approved in more than 100 countries for 5 years of use.

Improving Access to Long-Acting Contraceptive Methods and Reducing Unplanned Pregnancy Among Women with Substance Use Disorders

Much has been written about the consequences of substance use in pregnancy, but there has been far less focus on the prevention of unintended pregnancies in women with substance use disorders (SUDs). We examine the literature on pregnancy incidence for women with SUDs, the clinical and economic benefits of increasing access to long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods in this population, and the current hurdles to increased access and uptake. High rates of unintended pregnancies and poor physical and psychosocial outcomes among women with SUDs underscore the need for increased access to, and uptake of, LARC methods among these women. A small number of studies that focused on improving access to contraception, especially LARC, via integrated contraception services predominantly provided in drug treatment programs were identified. However, a number of barriers remain, highlighting that much more research is needed in this area.

Contraception After Kidney Transplantation, From Myth to Reality: A Comprehensive Review of the Current Evidence

There is a misconception among transplant clinicians that contraception after a successful renal transplant is challenging. This is partly due to the complex nature of transplant patients, where immunosuppression and graft dysfunction create major concerns. In addition, good evidence regarding contraception and transplant is scarce, with most of the evidence extrapolated from observational and case-controlled studies, thus adding to the dilemma of treating these patients. In this review, we closely analyzed the different methods of contraception and critically evaluated the efficacy of the different options for contraception after kidney transplant. We conclude that contraception after renal transplant is successful with acceptable risk. A multidisciplinary team approach involving obstetricians and transplant clinicians to decide the appropriate timing for conception is recommended. Early counseling on contraception is important to reduce the risk of unplanned pregnancies, improve pregnancy outcomes, and reduce maternal complications in patients after kidney transplant. To ascertain appropriate advice on the method of contraception, individualizing the method of contraception according to a patient's individual risks and expectations is essential.

Five-year review of copper T intrauterine device use at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar

Background

The intrauterine devices (IUDs) are widely used contraceptive methods all over the world today. They are effective and recommended for use up to 10 years. They are not without side effects, which often prompt the users to request for removal.

Objective

To determine the utilization rate of copper T intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD), side effects, and request for removal at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar.

Methods

The data on usage of the various forms of temporary contraception provided by the Family Planning Clinic of this center from January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2010 were collated. The records of usage of IUCD during same period were carefully studied.

Results

During this period, a total of 10,880 users were provided with various forms of contraceptives. Copper T IUD was the commonest form of contraception used at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital Family Planning Unit over the period under review (2006–2010) with a rate of 4,069 (37.40%). There was a yearly higher request for IUCD over other forms of contraceptives over the period. Of a total of 4,069 users of the copper T IUD method over the period, 1,410 (34.65%) belonged to the age group of 25–29 years. Eleven (4.61%) of the users requested for its removal due to abnormal vaginal bleeding, while five (2.08%) removed theirs due to abnormal vaginal discharge. The major reason for removal was the desire for pregnancy that accounted for 165 (70.26%), while one (0.51%) was removed due to dysmenorrhea.

Conclusion

The copper T380A was very effective, safe with fewer side effects, and easily available in this study. The request for removal is also low in our environment.

Estimated disability-adjusted life years averted by long-term provision of long acting contraceptive methods in a Brazilian clinic

STUDY QUESTION

What is the contribution of the provision, at no cost for users, of long acting reversible contraceptive methods (LARC; copper intrauterine device [IUD], the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system [LNG-IUS], contraceptive implants and depot-medroxyprogesterone [DMPA] injection) towards the disability-adjusted life years (DALY) averted through a Brazilian university-based clinic established over 30 years ago.

SUMMARY ANSWER

Over the last 10 years of evaluation, provision of LARC methods and DMPA by the clinic are estimated to have contributed to DALY averted by between 37 and 60 maternal deaths, 315-424 child mortalities, 634-853 combined maternal morbidity and mortality and child mortality, and 1056-1412 unsafe abortions averted.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

LARC methods are associated with a high contraceptive effectiveness when compared with contraceptive methods which need frequent attention; perhaps because LARC methods are independent of individual or couple compliance. However, in general previous studies have evaluated contraceptive methods during clinical studies over a short period of time, or not more than 10 years. Furthermore, information regarding the estimation of the DALY averted is scarce.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE AND DURATION

We reviewed 50 004 medical charts from women who consulted for the first time looking for a contraceptive method over the period from 2 January 1980 through 31 December 2012.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Women who consulted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Campinas, Brazil were new users and users switching contraceptive, including the copper IUD (n = 13 826), the LNG-IUS (n = 1525), implants (n = 277) and DMPA (n = 9387). Estimation of the DALY averted included maternal morbidity and mortality, child mortality and unsafe abortions averted.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

We obtained 29 416 contraceptive segments of use including 25 009 contraceptive segments of use from 20 821 new users or switchers to any LARC method or DMPA with at least 1 year of follow-up. The mean (± SD) age of the women at first consultation ranged from 25.3 ± 5.7 (range 12-47) years in the 1980s, to 31.9 ± 7.4 (range 16-50) years in 2010-2011. The most common contraceptive chosen at the first consultation was copper IUD (48.3, 74.5 and 64.7% in the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s, respectively). For an evaluation over 20 years, the cumulative pregnancy rates (SEM) were 0.4 (0.2), 2.8 (2.1), 4.0 (0.4) and 1.3 (0.4) for the LNG-IUS, the implants, copper IUD and DMPA, respectively and cumulative continuation rates (SEM) were 15.1 (3.7), 3.9 (1.4), 14.1 (0.6) and 7.3 (1.7) for the LNG-IUS, implants, copper IUD and DMPA, respectively (P < 0.001). Over the last 10 years of evaluation, the estimation of the contribution of the clinic through the provision of LARC methods and DMPA to DALY averted was 37-60 maternal deaths; between 315 and 424 child mortalities; combined maternal morbidity and mortality and child mortality of between 634 and 853, and 1056-1412 unsafe abortions averted.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

The main limitations are the number of women who never returned to the clinic (overall 14% among the four methods under evaluation); consequently the pregnancy rate could be different. Other limitations include the analysis of two kinds of copper IUD and two kinds of contraceptive implants as the same IUD or implant, and the low number of users of implants. In addition, the DALY calculation relies on a number of estimates, which may vary in different parts of the world.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

LARC methods and DMPA are highly effective and women who were well-counselled used these methods for a long time. The benefit of averting maternal morbidity and mortality, child mortality, and unsafe abortions is an example to health policy makers to implement more family planning programmes and to offer contraceptive methods, mainly LARC and DMPA, at no cost or at affordable cost for the underprivileged population.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS

This study received partial financial support from the Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP), grant # 2012/12810-4 and from the National Research Council (CNPq), grant #573747/2008-3. B.F.B., M.P.G., and V.M.C. were fellows from the scientific initiation programme from FAPESP. Since the year 2001, all the TCu380A IUD were donated by Injeflex, São Paulo, Brazil, and from the year 2006 all the LNG-IUS were donated by the International Contraceptive Access Foundation (ICA), Turku, Finland. Both donations are as unrestricted grants. The authors declare that there are no conflicts of interest associated with this study.

Different bleeding patterns with the use of levonorgestrel intrauterine system: are they associated with changes in uterine artery blood flow?

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate if different bleeding patterns associated with the use of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) are associated with different uterine and endometrial vascularization patterns, as evidenced by ultrasound power Doppler analysis.

METHODOLOGY

A longitudinal study, with each subject acting as its own control was conducted between January 2010 and December 2012. Healthy volunteers with a history of heavy but cyclic and regular menstrual cycles were enrolled in the study. Ultrasonographic examination was performed before and after six months of LNG-IUS placement: uterine volume, endometrial thickness, and subendometrial and myometrial Doppler blood flow patterns have been evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 32 women were enrolled out of 186 initially screened. At six months of follow-up, all subjects showed a reduction in menstrual blood loss; for analysis, they were retrospectively divided into 3 groups: normal cycling women (Group I), amenorrheic women (Group II), and women with prolonged bleedings (Group III). Intergroup analysis documented a statistically significant difference in endometrial thickness among the three groups; in addition, mean pulsatility index (PI) and resistance index (RI) in the spiral arteries were significantly lower in Group I and Group III compared to Group II. This difference persisted also when comparing--within subjects of Group III--mean PI and RI mean values before and after insertion.

CONCLUSIONS

The LNG-IUS not only altered endometrial thickness, but--in women with prolonged bleedings--also significantly changed uterine artery blood flow. Further studies are needed to confirm these results and enable gynecologists to properly counsel women, improving initial continuation rates.

Understanding benefits and addressing misperceptions and barriers to intrauterine device access among populations in the United States

Three intrauterine devices (IUDs), one copper and two containing the progestin levonorgestrel, are available for use in the United States. IUDs offer higher rates of contraceptive efficacy than nonlong-acting methods, and several studies have demonstrated higher satisfaction rates and continuation rates of any birth control method. This efficacy is not affected by age or parity. The safety of IUDs is well studied, and the risks of pelvic inflammatory disease, perforation, expulsion, and ectopic pregnancy are all of very low incidence. Noncontraceptive benefits include decreased menstrual blood loss, improved dysmenorrhea, improved pelvic pain associated with endometriosis, and protection of the endometrium from hyperplasia. The use of IUDs is accepted in patients with multiple medical problems who may have contraindications to other birth control methods. Yet despite well-published data, concerns and misperceptions still persist, especially among younger populations and nulliparous women. Medical governing bodies advocate for use of IUDs in these populations, as safety and efficacy is unchanged, and IUDs have been shown to decrease unintended pregnancies. Dispersion of accurate information among patients and practitioners is needed to further increase the acceptability and use of IUDs.

Pitfalls of research linking the intrauterine device to pelvic inflammatory disease

Correctly diagnosing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) using noninvasive clinical criteria remains challenging. Current guidelines for initiating treatment, based on minimal criteria (sensitive but not specific), are justified for public health purposes but inadequate and misleading for scientific purposes. Previous research on the link between the intrauterine device (IUD) and PID was controversial and subject to many limitations. Even today, these limitations still exist and include uncertainty of the PID diagnosis, unfair contraceptive comparisons, selection and diagnostic bias, and confounding. For example, IUD users are on heightened alert for PID relative to users of other methods. In addition, IUD users with pelvic pain may be more likely to seek physician consultation and consequently receive a PID diagnosis (true-positive or false-positive). Confounding factors such as higher coital frequency, multiple sexual partners, and low condom use may explain any finding that shows a higher PID rate among IUD users compared with other contraceptive users. Good evidence on how or whether the IUD changes the etiology of PID is lacking. In the past 10 years, use of the intrauterine device in the United States has increased markedly. Thus today, researchers may now have sufficient population-level exposure (IUD use) and disease (PID) to search for a connection and repeat past mistakes. Any new findings using observational research should be interpreted with caution. More rigorous research designs may not be pragmatic or feasible.

Analysis of the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system in women with endometriosis

Objectives

To compare the efficacy, safety and other clinical benefits of the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) and gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues (GnRH-a) in women with endometriosis.

Methods

A systematic search was carried out using the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, MEDLINE™ and EMBASE databases for all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated the use of the LNG-IUS and GnRH-a in premenopausal women with endometriosis.

Results

Five RCTs studies were identified. A meta-analysis showed that, in women with endometriosis, both the LNG-IUS and GnRH-a reduced pain visual analogue scale scores (weighted mean difference [WMD] 0.03 [95% confidence interval [CI] −0.53, 0.59]), serum levels of CA125 (WMD −12.29 [95% CI −29.90, 3.32]), and American Society of Reproductive Medicine staging scores (WMD 1.10 [95% CI −27.98, 30.18]). Psychological and general wellbeing index scores were increased (WMD 1.50 [95% CI −6.19, 9.19]). Levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were also significantly reduced in patients treated with the LNG-IUS (WMD 39.30 [95% CI 6.74, 71.86]).

Conclusions

The LNG-IUS had clinical efficacy equivalent to that of GnRH-a but may have some clinical advantages over GnRH-a in the treatment of endometriosis-associated symptoms. These observations will require further verification in additional studies employing larger patient populations.

Use of levonorgestrel intrauterine system for medical indications in adolescents

The levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) is an underused contraceptive method in adolescent populations. In addition to being a highly effective, reversible, long-acting contraception, the LNG-IUS has many noncontraceptive health benefits including reduced menstrual bleeding, decreased dysmenorrhea and pelvic pain related to endometriosis, and menstruation suppression in teens with physical or developmental disabilities. The LNG-IUS can also provide endometrial protection in teens with chronic anovulation, and may be used to treat endometrial hyperplasia and cancer. This review examines the evidence supporting the use of the LNG-IUS in adolescents for these noncontraceptive benefits.

Clinical applications of levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system to gynecologic diseases

The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS), originally designed for contraception, has since been applied to various gynecologic diseases. This article summarizes the current status of clinical applications of LNG-IUS to the treatment of gynecologic diseases such as heavy menstrual bleeding, endometriosis, leiomyoma, adenomyosis, endometrial hyperplasia, and early-stage endometrial cancer.

Role of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system in effective contraception

Norgestrel, a synthetic progestin chemically derived from 19-nortestosterone, is six times more potent than progesterone, with variable binding affinity to various steroid receptors. The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG IUS) provides a long-acting, highly effective, and reversible form of contraception, with a pearl index of 0.18 per 100 women-years. The locally released hormone leads to endometrial concentrations that are 200-800 times those found after daily oral use and a plasma level that is lower than that with other forms of levonorgestrel-containing contraception. The contraceptive effect of the LNG IUS is achieved mainly through its local suppressive effect on the endometrium, leading to endometrial thinning, glandular atrophy, and stromal decidualization without affecting ovulation. The LNG IUS is generally well tolerated. The main side effects are related to its androgenic activity, which is usually mild and transient, resolving after the first few months. Menstrual abnormalities are also common but well tolerated, and even become desirable (eg, amenorrhea, hypomenorrhea, and oligomenorrhea) with proper counseling of the patient during the choice of the method of contraception. The satisfaction rates after 3 years of insertion are high, reaching between 77% and 94%. The local effect of the LNG IUS on the endometrium and low rates of systemic adverse effects have led to its use in other conditions rather than contraception, as for the treatment of endometrial hyperplasia, benign menorrhagia, endometriosis, adenomyosis, and uterine fibroids.

Hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels in women using copper-releasing or levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine devices: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The use of intrauterine devices as a contraceptive method has been steadily growing in developing countries. Anemia in reproductive-age women is a growing concern in those settings.

STUDY DESIGN

A systematic review of studies with measured hemoglobin and serum ferritin at baseline and after 1 year of use of copper intrauterine devices (IUDs) or a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG IUS) was performed.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies involving copper IUDs in nonanemic women and 4 studies in anemic women and 6 involving the LNG IUS met the criteria for the systematic review. Meta-analyses for hemoglobin changes showed significant decreases for users of copper IUDs and an increase for the LNG IUS, but with limited data. In general, ferritin levels followed the same pattern.

CONCLUSION

Decreases in hemoglobin mean values in copper IUD users were not sufficient to induce anemia in previously nonanemic women. Women who are borderline anemic would likely benefit from using the LNG IUS.

AAGL practice report: practice guidelines for the diagnosis and management of submucous leiomyomas

Submucous leiomyomas or myomas are commonly encountered by gynecologists and specialists in reproductive endocrinology and infertility with patients presenting with 1 or a combination of symptoms that include heavy menstrual bleeding, infertility, and recurrent pregnancy loss. There exists a variety of interventions that include those performed under hysteroscopic, laparoscopic and laparotomic direction; an evolving spectrum of image guided procedures, and an expanding number of pharmaceutical agents, each of which has value for the appropriately selected and counseled patient. Identification of the ideal approach requires the clinician to be intimately familiar with a given patient's history, including her desires with respect to fertility, as well as an appropriately detailed evaluation of the uterus with any one or a combination of a number of imaging techniques, including hysteroscopy. This guideline has been developed following a systematic review of the evidence, to provide guidance to the clinician caring for such patients, and to assist the clinical investigator in determining potential areas of research. Where high level evidence was lacking, but where a majority of opinion or consensus could be reached, the guideline development committee provided consensus recommendations as well.

Migration of intrauterine devices: radiologic findings and implications for patient care

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a commonly used form of contraception worldwide. However, migration of the IUD from its normal position in the uterine fundus is a frequently encountered complication, varying from uterine expulsion to displacement into the endometrial canal to uterine perforation. Different sites of IUD translocation vary in terms of their clinical significance and subsequent management, and the urgency of communicating IUD migration to the clinician is likewise variable. Expulsion or intrauterine displacement of the IUD leads to decreased contraceptive efficacy and should be clearly communicated, since it warrants IUD replacement to prevent unplanned pregnancy. Embedment of the IUD into the myometrium can usually be managed in the outpatient clinical setting but occasionally requires hysteroscopic removal. Complete uterine perforation, in which the IUD is partially or completely within the peritoneal cavity, requires surgical management, and timely and direct communication with the clinician is essential in such cases. Careful evaluation for intraabdominal complications is also important, since they may warrant urgent or emergent surgical intervention. The radiologist plays an important role in the diagnosis of IUD migration and should be familiar with its appearance at multiple imaging modalities.