Comparison of intramenstrual IUD insertion with insertion following menstrual regulation

To evaluate the use-effectiveness and safety of IUD insertion immediately after menstrual regulation (MR) for delayed menses, a Lippes Loop D (LLD) intrauterine device was inserted in each of 100 consecutive clients at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, immediately after menstrual regulation. Pertinent event rates after 12 months of use were compared with those of 100 consecutive women who had the LLD inserted during menstruation. The cumulative net expulsion rate after 12 months of use was 8% for the study group and 4% for the controls. The overall rate of removals was 15% for the study group and 16% for the control group. None of the observed differences was statistically significant. The continuation rates at 12 months were comparable for both groups (78% and 80%, respectively). There were no accidental pregnancies during the study period. The authors suggest that IUD insertion immediately after menstrual regulation is as effective and safe as intramenstrual insertion, provided prophylactic antibiotics are given.