A comparative study of the effect of the Progestasert TM and Gravigard IUDs on dysmenorrhoea

Abstract

Data obtained from questionnaires on the occurrence of dysmenorrhoea in women using IUDs inserted randomly (146 of them Progestasert and 149 Copper 7) are analyzed. In both groups a reduction in the intensity of menstrual cramps was observed over 12 months of use. Although these reductions are significant in each group, they are slightly higher in Progestasert users. However, on comparing the reduction tendencies of both groups, the difference between them is not significant. No significant differences become apparent either when comparing premenstrual and intermenstrual camps. The usefulness of simple questionnaires directed at detecting the nature of pain in currently used family planning forms for IUD users is discussed.

PIP: A study was conducted at the Family Planning Centre of the Hospital Jose Joaquin Aguirre, Chile, involving 146 patients who had a Progestasert TM IUD inserted and 149 patients who had a Copper 7 IUD, Gravigard TM, inserted to determine the occurrence of dysmenorrhea. All patients completed questionnaires concerning habitual pelvic or genital pain prior to IUD insertion as well as at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after insertion. Results indicated a reduction in menstrual cramps over 12 months of use. The Progestasert TM group showed a slightly higher reduction of menstrual cramps than Copper 7 users; however, the reductions are not significant. There were no significant differences between premenstrual and intermenstrual cramps. With the use of a questionnaire and the subjective condition of pain, it is difficult to ascertain whether the IUD produced any change in menstrual cramps or whether the reduction of pain originated in the patients; therefore, the technique of questioning the occurrence of pain may not be reliable enough.