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Does using tampons or menstrual cups increase early IUD expulsion rates?
Ellen R Wiebe1, Konia J Trouton
1Department of Family Practice, University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC, Canada. ellenwiebe@gmail.com
Contraception
|April 3, 2012
Summary
Using menstrual cups or tampons with an intrauterine device (IUD) does not increase the risk of early IUD expulsion. This study found no significant difference in expulsion rates among IUD users employing various menstrual protection methods.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Contraception
- Gynecology
Background:
- Intrauterine device (IUD) use is common, with many users also employing intravaginal menstrual products.
- The potential impact of menstrual cups or tampons on IUD expulsion rates remains understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether the use of menstrual cups or tampons during menses affects the risk of early intrauterine device expulsion.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of women with IUD insertions.
- Analysis of menstrual product use (cups, tampons, pads) and IUD expulsion within the first six weeks post-insertion.
Main Results:
- Among 930 IUD users, menstrual cups were used by 10.3%, tampons by 74.2%, and pads by 43.2%.
- In 743 women with adequate follow-up, the overall early IUD expulsion rate (full or partial) was 2.5%.
- No statistically significant difference in expulsion rates was observed between users of menstrual cups, tampons, or pads.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence suggests that using menstrual cups or tampons concurrently with an IUD does not elevate the risk of early IUD expulsion.
- These findings may help reassure IUD users regarding their choice of menstrual hygiene products.
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