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The levonorgestrel intrauterine system in contraception
P Lähteenmäki1, I Rauramo, T Backman
1Leiras OY, PO Box 415, Fin 20101, Turku, Finland. pekka.lahteenmaki@leiras.fi
Steroids
|December 8, 2000
Summary
The levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG IUS) offers highly effective contraception with a Pearl index of 0.1. It significantly reduces menstrual bleeding and offers additional health benefits, leading to high user continuation rates.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Gynecology
- Contraception
Background:
- The levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG IUS) is a T-shaped device releasing levonorgestrel for long-term contraception.
- It is approved for up to 5 years of use and is known for high efficacy and menstrual blood flow reduction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the contraceptive efficacy and non-contraceptive benefits of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG IUS).
- To highlight the mechanisms of action, safety profile, and user acceptance of LNG IUS.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical trial data and scientific literature on LNG IUS.
- Analysis of contraceptive efficacy (Pearl index), pregnancy rates (including extrauterine), menstrual bleeding patterns, and user continuation.
Main Results:
- Contraceptive efficacy demonstrated by a Pearl index of 0.1 in large clinical trials.
- Significant reduction in menstrual blood volume and bleeding days; amenorrhea occurs in 20% within the first year.
- Additional benefits include increased hemoglobin, decreased dysmenorrhea, potential reduction in pelvic inflammatory disease, and possible decrease in fibroid growth.
Conclusions:
- LNG IUS is a highly effective contraceptive with a favorable safety profile and significant non-contraceptive health benefits.
- Its mechanisms include endometrial suppression and cervical mucus alteration, contributing to high user satisfaction and continuation rates exceeding 80%.