A clinical guideline for intrauterine device use in adolescents

Abstract

Purpose: To present an evidence-based review of the data for and against the use of the intrauterine device (IUD) in adolescent females and to provide guidelines for selection of appropriate candidates.

Data sources: Clinical research, expert opinions, and systematic reviews of IUD use in adolescents.

Conclusions: The use of the IUD in adolescents has been questioned in the past as a result of concerns surrounding increased risks for pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility in adolescents. Current research reveals no contraindications to IUD use based solely on age or parity and illuminates many benefits to use, including a decrease in menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea.

Implications for practice: The U.S. adolescent pregnancy rates rose from 2005 to 2007, reversing a decade-long downward trend. Adolescents need safe, effective, user-friendly contraceptive methods. IUDs are a safe and effective option for adolescents and provide an additional contraceptive option for nurse practitioners to offer their patients to prevent unintended pregnancy and enhance adolescent sexual health and well-being. Proper selection of candidates for IUD use can mitigate clinical and legal risks associated with IUD use.