Major differences in the characteristics of users of the copper intrauterine device or levonorgestrel intrauterine system at a clinic in Campinas, Brazil

Abstract

Objective: To compare the sociodemographic characteristics of users of the copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD) and the levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) at a family planning clinic in Campinas, SP, Brazil.

Methods: A retrospective audit study was conducted to analyze the characteristics of new users of IUDs at the clinic of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Campinas. Data covered insertions performed between 1979 and 2006 when only the Cu-IUD was offered at the clinic, and between 2007 and 2019 when the LNG-IUS was also offered, both free of charge to women. Logistic regression analysis was performed.

Results: There were 31 385 insertions. Cu-IUD: n = 17 156 (1979-2006) and n = 2013 (2007-2019); LNG-IUS n = 12 216 (2007-2019). Up to 2006, Cu-IUD users were less likely to be nulligravidas, more likely to be younger than 40 years of age, and with fewer years of schooling. Following introduction of LNG-IUS, the sociodemographic characteristics of users presented major changes over time. Comparing the period 1979-2006 with 2007-2019, new users of the LNG-IUS were more likely to be older than 40 years of age, with fewer years of completed schooling, and to be nulligravidas.

Conclusion: Major changes in sociodemographic characteristics of users were noted according to preference over time. Introduction of the LNG-IUS presents a major opportunity to increase IUD use.

Keywords: Brazil; copper intrauterine device; levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system; sociodemographic characteristics.