Publication:

A prospective study to evaluate safety, efficacy and expulsion rate of post-partum insertion of intrauterine contraceptive device in a tertiary care centre

Background The concept of contraception is not new, but its widespread application definitely is. Contraceptive availability is paramount for the health of women of reproductive age group. Among the variety of options available, female sterilization and IUCD are the most popular in developing countries. This study was conducted to assess the safety, incidence of complications, expulsion rates and willingness to continue at a 6 weeks’ follow-up period; after insertion of Cu T 380 A within ten minutes of placental expulsion both in vaginal and C-section deliveries.

Methods Prospective study in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Cheluvamba Hospital from a period of 1st January 2016 to 31st June 2016. All consenting antenatal cases including referrals, who fulfil all the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Expulsion rates at 6 weeks’ follow-up were measured.

Results Total women counselled were 462, accepted 50, declined 412, lost to follow up 3, followed up 47, expulsion 3, bleeding 11, string problems 5, removal 8, continuation 36.

Conclusions PPIUCD is demonstrably a safe and effective contraceptive with high retention rate in the hands of a skilled caregiver. Strategies to increase public awareness through media sources are the need of the hour. Training of healthcare providers, cash incentives to acceptor, motivator and provider would further promote its use in developing countries like India.