Publication:

Pelvic pain and early IUD discontinuation: a prospective cohort study

Background The aim of the study is to assess if pelvic pain is a risk factor for intrauterine device (IUD) discontinuation within one year of placement.

Methods This is a prospective cohort study of women who had IUDs inserted at a family planning office for the primary intent of contraception. Baseline pelvic pain characteristics were assessed using a validated pelvic pain questionnaire.  Women were contacted at 1 year to assess IUD continuation.

Results From February 1, 2014 to August 11, 2015 authors enrolled a sample of 179 women.  Of the 179 enrolled,163 participants completed the questionnaire, 98 reported a history of baseline pelvic pain and 65 reported no history of baseline pelvic pain. 20 participants were lost to follow-up. 86 women in the pelvic pain and 57 in the no pelvic pain group were included in the final analysis. Discontinuation rates at one year follow up were 25.6% (22) and 35.1% (20) respectively. There was no significant difference in those with and without pelvic pain discontinuing IUDs at one year (p = 0.22).

Conclusions Baseline generalized pelvic pain may not be a risk factor for IUD discontinuation within one year of placement.