Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are among the safest and most effective contraceptives available, suitable for many women. Articles outline how IUDs work, who are best candidates for use, use among postpartum women, frequently asked questions and training needs.
In this issue
Opinion: Women Deserve Accurate Information
- By Dr. Aníbal Faúndes, M.D., Universidade Estadual de Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
Proper IUD Use Requires Training
- Good training includes current scientific information, insertion practice, and counseling techniques.
IUDs Block Fertilization
- IUDs achieve their primary contraceptive effect by interfering with sperm motility and survival.
Key Precautions Minimize PID Risk
- Client screening and aspectic insertion can greatly reduce the risk of infection.
IUD Not First Choice for Young, Never Pregnant Women
- Young women and women who have not yet had children can generally use IUDs, but providers should be cautious.
IUD Safety Can Be Appealing
- In countries where IUDs are not widely used, unfounded health concerns can be a reason.
IUD Insertion Timing Vital in Postpartum Use
- Because of expulsion risks, insertion ideally should take place soon after delivery, or delayed for weeks.
Delaying Access Risks Unwanted Pregnancy
- Postponing a woman's access to contraception to coincide with menses may result in unplanned pregnancy or discourage her from using family planning.
Contraceptive Update: LNg IUD Offers Less Bleeding
- A new IUD available in Europe uses a synthetic hormone to achieve a high rate of long-acting contraception.
The Copper IUD: Typical Questions
- A question and answer discusses the copper IUD, based on guidelines developed by the U.S. Agency for International Development.
Who Should Use Copper IUDs?
- A summary of guidelines prepared by the World Health Organization explains who should, and should not use IUDs.
Contraceptive Update: Newer OCs and Blood Clot Risks
- A question and answer column discusses oral contraceptives containing the newest progestins, desogestrel and gestodene.
Beijing: A Commitment To Improve Women's Lives
- Observations about the United Nation's Fourth World Conference on Women are given in a column by Dr. Karen Hardee, FHI principal research scientist.
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