ACOG committee opinion. No. 337: Noncontraceptive uses of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system

Abstract

The levonorgestrel intrauterine system, approved for contraceptive use for up to 5 years, also has noncontraceptive uses. It appears to reduce menstrual bleeding significantly in women with idiopathic menorrhagia. Current studies suggest that menopausal hormone therapy regimens combining the levonorgestrel intrauterine system with estradiol are effective in reducing climacteric symptoms and in inducing amenorrhea in most women after 1 year. Further studies are required before this device can be recommended as a treatment for endometriosis-associated pelvic pain, hyperplasia, or endometrial adenocarcinoma, or as adjuvant therapy with tamoxifen.