Intrauterine devices and adolescents

Abstract

The purpose of this review is to inform the reader of new information published on intrauterine devices (IUDs) and adolescents. There are few studies on the use of IUDs in adolescents. The article reviews topics related to IUD use such as adolescents' knowledge of and attitudes toward IUDs, mechanism of action of copper-releasing and levonorgestrel-releasing IUDs, benefits of using IUDs with adolescents, safety, side effects, as well as noncontraceptive benefits such as management of menstrual disorders and endometriosis using IUDs. IUDs are a safe and effective long-term contraceptive method with no increase in risk of pelvic inflammatory disease, tubal infertility or ectopic pregnancies. IUDs are underutilized in the United States, especially by adolescents. Because adolescents contribute disproportionately to the epidemic of unintended pregnancy, IUDs should be considered as a first-line contraceptive choice regardless of parity. The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG IUS) is a particularly good choice for adolescents because of associated noncontraceptive benefits such as decreased menstrual bleeding, dysmenorrhea and pain associated with endometriosis. There is a clear need for further studies in the use of the IUD among adolescents.