Study, 1979

Does a hormone-releasing IUD help women who cannot tolerate regular IUDs?

Yes, a progesterone-releasing IUD reduced menstrual bleeding and discomfort more often than it increased them, and 76 per cent of women continued using it after one year.

Early or limited evidence 25 women unable to use regular non-hormonal IUDs

What they did

A progesterone-releasing IUD was given to 25 women who could not use regular IUDs. Menstrual bleeding, discomfort, and blood iron levels were monitored.

What they found

Menstrual bleeding decreased more often than it increased. Discomfort also decreased more often than it increased. Hemoglobin, hematocrit, and serum iron levels either stayed the same or increased. 76 per cent of women were still using the IUD after one year.

What it means for you

Progesterone IUDs can help women with painful periods or heavy bleeding who could not use regular IUDs. The study was small with no control group for comparison.

Women studied

76 per cent

Continuing use after one year

About the study

Original title: Intrauterine progesterone contraceptive system as an alternative in cases where conventional IUD's are unsuitable
Authors: Ylöstalo P, Rantakylä P, Järvinen PA et al.
Journal: Acta obstetricia et gynecologica Scandinavica
Year: 1979
Study design: Study
Participants: 25
What was tested: Progesterone-releasing IUD
Read the paper: doi.org/10.3109/00016347909154049

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