Advance information improves user satisfaction with the levonorgestrel intrauterine system

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Contraception Research
• Patient Education

Background:

• The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (IUD) is a widely used contraceptive method.
• User satisfaction is a critical factor influencing the long-term use of any contraceptive.
• Previous contraceptive dissatisfaction often motivates the choice of IUDs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate factors influencing user satisfaction with the levonorgestrel-releasing IUD.
• To determine the impact of advance information provided during outpatient visits on user satisfaction.
• To evaluate specific parameters associated with IUD satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A large-scale survey of 23,885 women in Finland who had a levonorgestrel-releasing IUD inserted between 1990 and 1993.
• A response rate of 75% (17,914 questionnaires returned) was achieved.
• Cumulative logistic regression analysis was employed to assess satisfaction levels.

Main Results:

• 74% of levonorgestrel-releasing IUD users reported high satisfaction.
• Satisfaction increased with age.
• Information about various symptoms (menstrual changes, skin issues, pregnancy, PID, missed periods) positively correlated with satisfaction, irrespective of symptom experience.
• Women informed about potential amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) showed significantly higher satisfaction (OR 5.0).

Conclusions:

• Advance information provided at the insertion visit is a key determinant of user satisfaction with the levonorgestrel-releasing IUD.
• The strongest association between satisfaction and information was observed for details regarding the possibility of missed periods.
• Enhanced patient education can improve contraceptive adherence and satisfaction.