Abstract

PIP: A comparative randomized study of the ML Cu 250 and the T Cu 200 was conducted; the results of 1956 insertions (of which 957 concerned the ML Cu 250) are reported. All recipients were women requesting an IUD (Department of Obstetrics, University of Gent, Belgium) and lacking contraindication to its use. The IUDs were inserted at interim or immediately after delivery of placenta at, or about term. When inserted at interim the 2 IUDs had a comparable anti-fertility effect, but the ML Cu 250 was significantly better retained and the T Cu 200 was significantly better tolerated. Both the T Cu 200 and the ML Cu 250 were more often expelled by the younger recipients. Performance of the devices was influenced by the woman's gravidity/parity. No significant difference in performance was found between the 2 IUDs after immediate postpartum insertion. This procedure is effective, well tolerated and safe. For both IUD types, the pregnancy and expulsion rates are significantly higher after immediate postpartum placement than after interval insertion. Due to the fact that the majority of the expulsions occur early, close follow-up of acceptors is essential.