IUDs Are Effective for Menstrual Management in Teens with Disabilities

Although adverse side effect rates were low, almost all young women required anesthesia for IUD insertion.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends off-label use of the 52-mg levonorgestrel intrauterine device (IUD) for management of menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea in teens with disabilities, but only small case reports have examined its safety and effectiveness.

In a retrospective chart review, investigators examined outcomes of IUD insertion between 2004 and 2014 in 159 nulliparous women aged ≤22 years with a physical disability (e.g., cerebral palsy or spina bifida), intellectual disability, or developmental delay. Mean age at insertion was 16.3 years (range, 9–22), which was >1 year after menarche in most patients. For about one third of patients, this was the first menstrual management method attempted; 4% had been sex…

Reviewing Author

Jenny Radesky, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMelissa & Doug Toys (Consultant and Board of Directors)

Grant/Research SupportNational Institute for Child Health and Development; National Institutes of Health

Jenny Radesky, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMelissa & Doug Toys (Consultant and Board of Directors)

Grant/Research SupportNational Institute for Child Health and Development; National Institutes of Health

IUDs Are Effective for Menstrual Management in Teens with Disabilities

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Reviewing Author