Programmatic experience of post-partum IUD use in Zambia: an observational study on continuation and satisfaction

The aim of the study was to assess continuation rates and satisfaction among post-partum intrauterine device (PPIUD) accepters.

This prospective observational study comprised 591 Zambian women who underwent PPIUD insertion at sites of the Society for Family Health, Lusaka, Zambia. The women were contacted 6-12 months after PPIUD insertion and asked to return to the clinic for interview and examination. If the IUD strings were not visible, an ultrasound was performed. Participants were asked about their satisfaction with the PPIUD. Main outcome measures were short-term PPIUD continuation and reported complications according to time of insertion.

Of 591 women enrolled, 305 women attended the follow-up appointment for interview and examination, giving a power of 80% to estimate an expulsion rate of 10 ± 5%. The IUD was inserted within 10 min of placental delivery (post-placental insertion) in 24.3% of participants (n = 74) and within 48 h (immediate post-partum insertion) in 71.1% of participants (n = 217). The total expulsion rate was 5.6%. Expulsion rates for post-placental and immediate post-partum insertions were 10.8% and 4.1%, respectively. No significant difference in expulsion rates was found (p = 0.10). Of those with an expulsion, 76.5% (n = 13) recognised that it had occurred. There were no reported complications, and 94.1% of women reported being satisfied or very satisfied with their PPIUD (n = 287).

Overall, expulsion rates were lower than previously reported, particularly for immediate post-partum insertions. Attention to high fundal placement at insertion is a likely explanation for the low expulsion rates. Contrary to conventional wisdom, these low expulsion rates indicate that previous notions regarding insertion timing may not be accurate. Satisfaction levels were also favourable. PPIUD can be safe, acceptable and feasible in an African setting.