THE INTRAUTERINE LNG SYSTEM AFTER TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY

Abstract
After a termination of pregnancy women are highly motivated to use a safe, efficient and, mostly, a long-acting contraceptive method. Insertion of an intrauterine device (IUD) immediately after abortion offers several advantages. Such women are already in a sterile environment and should have had pre-abortion counseling. In addition, the patient does not feel any pain at insertion because she is under anesthesia. However, insertion of an IUD immediately after abortion carries certain risks that have to be considered. The risk of spontaneous expulsion may be increased because of the dilated cervical canal, and the risk of infection may be elevated, especially if the uterus is not properly emptied after aspiration or if there is an untreated infection in the cervical canal. Recently we reported on the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) after termination of pregnancy. This article assesses the safety and efficacy of LNG-IUS insertions after induced abortion in the light of recent studies. Special instructions regarding clinical practice are also given.

Key words
Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system, contraception, abortion, termination of pregnancy

Bibliografía del artículo

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