Does Choice of Menstrual Protection Affect IUD Expulsion Risk?

Canadian report suggests use of tampons and menstrual cups does not raise risk.

Whether use of tampons or menstrual cups raises risk for intrauterine device (IUD) expulsion is unknown. Investigators at two Canadian reproductive health clinics reviewed charts of 930 women who received copper IUDs or levonorgestrel intrauterine systems (LNG-IUS) in 2009 to determine their choice of menstrual protection (tampons, menstrual cups, or pads alone or with other protection). Sonographic assessment was performed as part of follow-up in most IUD recipients who experienced possible expulsions.

Data on partial or complete expulsion within 6 weeks after IUD placement were available for 743 women. Expulsion rates by choice of menstrual protection ranged from 2.4% to 4.1% and were similar regardless of type of protection. Although copp…

Reviewing Author

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Does Choice of Menstrual Protection Affect IUD Expulsion Risk?

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Reviewing Author