User satisfaction with a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS): Data from an international survey

Abstract

Objectives To identify the characteristics of an international population of women using the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) and their experiences with this contraceptive.

Methods Women who had used the LNG-IUS for six months or more completed a standardised questionnaire on reasons for use, user satisfaction and other aspects.

Results A total of 8680 questionnaires were completed by survey participants in 18 countries across Europe and the Near East. The average woman using the LNG-IUS was 38 years old, was married or lived with her partner, and had two children. Overall, 95% of patients were satisfied with the LNG-IUS; the percentage rose to 99% among those using their second LNG-IUS. Reasons mentioned for using the LNG-IUS included the need for contraception (68%), its high efficacy (59%) and the shorter/lighter menstrual bleeding (55%). Of the women with prior bleeding problems, 93% reported an improvement in their symptoms with the LNG-IUS. Participants also rated the reliability, tolerability and convenience of the method highly.

Conclusions This survey provides insight into the profiles of LNG-IUS users. High levels of satisfaction with this method of contraception were reported by both first and second-time users. Our data suggest that the LNG-IUS is well accepted and that it provides considerable benefits beyond contraception alone.

KEYWORDS:

• Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS)
• Long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC)
• Contraception
• Intrauterine device (IUD)

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank all participating physicians who contributed to this study.

Declaration of interest: This study was designed and funded by Bayer Schering Pharma AG. Editorial assistance was provided by Fishawack Communications Ltd. The authors report that they have no financial or other conflicts of interest.