FIGO postpartum intrauterine device initiative: Complication rates across six countries

To record and analyze complication rates following postpartum intrauterine device (PPIUD) insertion in 48 hospitals in six countries: Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Tanzania, and Kenya.

Healthcare providers were trained in counselling and insertion of PPIUD via a training-the-trainer model. Data were collected on methodology, timing, cadre of staff providing care, and number of insertions. Data on complications were collected at 6-week follow-up. Statistical analysis was performed to elucidate factors associated with increased expulsion and absence of threads.

From May 2014 to September 2017, 36 766 PPIUDs were inserted: 53% vaginal and 47% at cesarean delivery; 74% were inserted by doctors. Follow-up was attended by 52%. Expulsion and removal rates were 2.5% and 3.6%, respectively. Threads were not visible in 29%. Expulsion was less likely after cesarean insertion (aOR 0.33; 95% CI, 0.26-0.41), following vaginal insertion at between 10 minutes and 48 hours (aOR 0.59; 95% CI, 0.42-0.83), and when insertion was performed by a nurse (aOR 0.33; 95% CI, 0.22-0.50).

PPIUD has low complication rates and can be safely inserted by a variety of trained health staff. Given the immediate benefit of the one-stop approach, governments should urgently consider adopting this model.