Intrauterine contraception for adolescents aged 14–18 years: a multicenter randomized pilot study of Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system compared to the Copper T 380A
Received 13 July 2009; received in revised form 6 September 2009; accepted 9 September 2009. published online 09 October 2009.
Abstract
Background
Intrauterine contraception can provide adolescents with effective, long-term contraception as well as with other health benefits. In adult populations, intrauterine contraception rates highly in patient satisfaction and safety. It is rarely prescribed to adolescents because of limited data.
Study Design
Multicenter, randomized, controlled, participant-blinded pilot study of 14–18-year-old females assigned to the Copper T 380A intrauterine device or the Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System. Participants were followed up for 6 months following insertion.
Results
We enrolled 23 participants; 12 received the Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System, and 11 received the Copper T 380A. At 6 months, the continuation rates were 75% for the Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System users and 45% for the Copper T 380A users (p=.15). Two Copper T 380A users experienced partial expulsion. Heavy bleeding and pelvic pain were the most commonly reported side effects. Participants rated both methods favorably.
Conclusions
This study shows that at 6 months, though not statistically significant, adolescent continuation rates trended towards being greater with the Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System compared to the Copper T 380A. These pilot data will be helpful in the design of a larger trial of intrauterine contraception use among adolescents.
ABSTRACT