Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system for menstrual dysfunction: patient satisfaction in the district general hospital setting

Abstract

Over a 3-year period, 102 women had a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) inserted for menstrual dysfunction at the gynaecology clinics of a small district general hospital. A retrospective observation study was carried out to review the use of the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system for menstrual dysfunction and patient satisfaction with the device. Sixty-six women felt their periods improved after insertion of the LNG-IUS. Thirty-one had the device removed prematurely, the most common indication being excessive bleeding. Nineteen underwent hysterectomy. Twenty-one experienced hormonal side effects. Fifty-seven of the 102 women were satisfied with the LNG-IUS and 53 would use it again. The continuation and satisfaction rates with the LNG-IUS at the hospital compare favourably with those found in research trials.