A pilot study of the Copper T380A IUD and oral levonorgestrel for emergency contraception

Abstract

Background: This study evaluates the willingness of women presenting for emergency contraception (EC) to enroll in a study offering the copper intrauterine device (IUD) or oral levonorgestrel (LNG) and follows up the two groups for 6 months after EC administration to compare use of an effective method of contraception.

Study design: This prospective observational study offered these two methods to women presenting for EC. The primary outcome was use of an effective method of contraception 6 months after presenting for EC.

Results: Thirty-four women (60%) chose oral LNG and 23 (40%) chose the copper IUD. One month after presenting for EC, 21 (96%) of 22 in the IUD group were still using the IUD and all 22 were using an effective method of contraception (efficacy ≥92%). In the LNG group, 13 (52%) of 25 were using an effective method of contraception (p<.001). At 6 months, 9 (69%) of 13 IUD users and 11 (52%) of 21 oral LNG EC users were using an effective method (p=NS).

Conclusion: Women presenting for EC were willing to enroll in a study offering the copper IUD or oral LNG.