Use of IUDs in developing countries: a comparative study
Farr, G.; Burdan, A.
Network 12(2): 6-8; 12
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0270-3637 PMID: 12284277 Document Number: 315462
Results of a Family Health International comparative study of IUDs among 10,000 women in 23 developing countries are reported. Conducted over the period 1985-89, the study compared the Copper T 380A IUD with the 1st-generation Lippes Loop, the Multiload 250, and the TCu 200, for accidental pregnancies, safety, acceptability, and other issues. The study found declining removals due to complications, with increasing rates of method continuation. The TCu 380 A IUD in fact proved to be as effective as injectables or newly-developed hormonal implants, such as Norplant better understanding of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) also reveals PID to present no more frequently among users of modern IUDs when compared to the general population as long as proper user selection, insertion, and monitoring techniques are followed. Following such guideline, and avoiding use in women at high risk for infection from sexually transmitted diseases (STD) will generally provide effective, acceptable, and inexpensive protection against pregnancy. Trained health professionals are called for in insertion, removal, and follow-up exams over the 1st 3 months following insertion. The Copper T 380A IUD was evaluated as best overall device for most circumstances.