Recent developments in the clinical use of the levonorgestrel‐releasing intrauterine system

Abstract

This overview focuses on recent developments in the clinical use of the levonorgestrel- releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) on established indications. Recent studies confirm that the LNG-IUS is safe and equally effective for all age groups of women. All available studies showed that intrauterine contraception is more effective when compared to non-intrauterine contraceptive methods to prevent repeat abortions. Furthermore, insertion in young nulliparous women is acceptable in the majority of women and associated with high continuation rates. The effectivity of LNG-IUS appears to be similar in women with chronic medical conditions, including HIV infection or coagulation disorders, and healthy women. More and most importantly, it has no adverse effect on the underlying condition. We also discuss effects of LNG-IUS on bone mineral density, vaginal flora, cardiovascular risk factors and breast cancer. In treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding, the LNG-IUS appears to be one of the most effective and cost-effective methods.

Current barriers and potential strategies to increase the use of long‐acting reversible contraception (LARC) to reduce the rate of unintended pregnancies in Australia: An expert roundtable discussion

“…An understanding of the impact of contraceptive methods on the sexuality and health of both parties is needed (e.g. a vasectomy vs a levonorgestrel‐releasing IUD, which is reversible and simultaneously treats heavy menstrual bleeding) …”

Two Low-Dose Levonorgestrel Intrauterine Contraceptive Systems

“…1 Many authorities [2][3][4][5][6] have supported use of intrauterine contraceptives in nulliparous women; however, a recent survey demonstrated that more than 60% of U.S. clinicians only infrequently offer intrauterine contraceptives to nulliparous women. This has been the result of its safety, convenience, and its effectiveness as a contraceptive and as a treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding.…”

Likelihood of repeat abortion in a Swedish cohort according to the choice of post‐abortion contraception: a longitudinal study

“…Previous studies have found that use of LARC after an abortion leads to a greater reduction in the risk of further unintended pregnancies and repeat abortions compared with use of other contraceptive methods. Few studies have included choice and use of subdermal implants post‐abortion and studies with longer follow‐up time are lacking . A high initial cost for levonorgestrel intrauterine systems (LNG‐IUS) and subdermal implants is, however, a challenge affecting the choice of contraceptive method .…”