Prophylactic ibuprofen does not improve pain with IUD insertion: a randomized trial.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Pain Management
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Intrauterine device (IUD) insertion is a common contraceptive procedure.
• Pain experienced during IUD insertion can be a barrier to uptake and continuation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of ibuprofen 800mg in reducing pain associated with IUD insertion among U.S. women.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted.
• Participants received either ibuprofen 800mg or placebo 30-45 minutes prior to IUD insertion.
• Pain was measured using a 100-mm visual analog scale (VAS).

Main Results:

• A total of 202 women were enrolled.
• No significant difference in median pain scores was observed between the ibuprofen and placebo groups (41.5mm vs. 38.0mm, p=.50).
• Nulliparous women reported significantly higher median pain scores compared to parous women (p=.004).

Conclusions:

• Pre-insertion administration of ibuprofen 800mg does not effectively reduce pain during IUD insertion for U.S. women.
• Nulliparity is associated with increased pain perception during IUD insertion.