Non-contraceptive Effects of Intrauterine Contraceptive Devices

There is a need for long-acting birth control methods. Copper-bearing intrauterine contraceptive devices do not have systemic side effects and they are appropriate for parous women who have no excess menstrual flow or cramps at baseline and who have low risk for sexually transmitted infections. Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems release levonorgestrel directly into uterine cavity. The hormone is mainly concentrated into endometrium but some amount is quickly absorbed into systemic circulation. Most women who use this system will experience a decrease in menstrual blood loss and pain with increase in serum hemoglobin and ferritin levels. During first few months of use some of them will be amenorrhoic or will have unscheduled erratic menstrual bleeding. The levonorgestrel intrauterine system may be a therapeutic option for women with idiopathic menorrhagia or with some inherited bleeding disorders. It provides endometrial protection for women receiving estrogen replacement therapy during menopause or from over stimulation by their own unopposed estrogens.