Clinical Experience with Copper Intrauterine Devices in an Urban Family Practice Unit

Abstract

This is an independent study involving no funding or support by the manufacturers of copper IUDs. All insertions of copper IUDs were recorded from January 1 1976 until December 31 1977. The devices used during 1976 were both Cu-7s and Cu-Ts. During 1977 only Cu-7s were used because they are easier to insert. The procedure was carried out by using sterile technique and the method recommended by the manufacturers was followed. Special attention was paid to: age of patient marital status pelvic findings cytological smear previous contraceptive method and reasons for choice of IUD. General acceptance and difficulties were recorded. Of 88 women who considered the IUD as contraceptive method 6 were referred to gynecologists for insertion one stayed on the pill after a vasovagal attack on uterine sounding and 93 IUDs were successfully inserted in 81 women. Of these only 7 encountered difficulty all of whom were nulliparous.