The influence of the Gyne-T 380S IUD on menstrual blood loss and iron status

The influence of the Gyne-T 380S intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) on menstrual blood loss (MBL) and iron status (hemoglobin, hematocrit, red cell count and indices, and serum ferritin) was evaluated. MBL was determined objectively by the alkaline hematin method in 18 women (mean age 37.1 +/- 1.6 yr, range 22-46 yr) before and 3, 6 and 12 months after insertion of a Gyne-T 380S IUD. MBL prior to IUD insertion was 59 +/- 8 ml and increased to 91 +/- 11 ml (p < 0.01) 3 months after insertion. MBL then remained largely unchanged during the remainder of the observation period (6 months, 94 +/- 12 ml; 12 months, 92 +/- 13 ml). The percentage increase in MBL at the respective measurement points ranged between 54 and 59% which is comparable with previous reports regarding the increase in MBL associated with the use of a copper IUD. There were no significant changes recorded in iron status parameters during the 12-month observation period following IUD insertion. Based on the results of the present study, women from developed countries apparently tolerate an increased MBL of approximately 55% without developing iron deficiency anemia. Iron stores were unchanged indicating an adequate adaptive increase in intestinal iron absorption.