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Pelvic adhesions in intrauterine device users
B Kirshon1, A N Poindexter, M R Spitz
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|February 1, 1988
Summary
Intrauterine device (IUD) use does not increase the risk of pelvic adhesions. This study found no significant association between IUDs and adhesions, supporting their safe use in women.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Gynecology
- Surgical Outcomes
Background:
- Pelvic adhesions can cause complications such as infertility and chronic pain.
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a common form of long-acting reversible contraception.
- Concerns exist regarding potential associations between IUD use and pelvic adhesion formation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between intrauterine device (IUD) use and the incidence of pelvic adhesions.
- To evaluate the risk of adhesion development in women using IUDs compared to non-users.
Main Methods:
- Prospective observational study involving 2131 patients undergoing laparoscopic tubal sterilization.
- Pelvic adhesions were visually assessed during laparoscopy.
- Contraceptive history, including IUD use, was compared between patients with and without adhesions.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant increased incidence of pelvic adhesions was found in current or previous IUD users (Odds Ratio = 0.98).
- The risk of adhesions was even lower in current IUD users (Odds Ratio = 0.62).
- Specific IUD types examined included Lippes Loop, Copper 7, and Saf-T-Coil.
Conclusions:
- Intrauterine device (IUD) use is not associated with an increased risk of developing pelvic adhesions.
- Findings support the continued use of IUDs in appropriate patients, particularly multiparous women.
- IUDs can be safely utilized without a heightened risk of adhesion-related complications.