Noncontraceptive health benefits of intrauterine devices: a systematic review

Micro- and Macronutrients in Endometrial Cancer-From Metallomic Analysis to Improvements in Treatment Strategies

Endometrial cancer is reported to be one of the most prevalent cancers of the female reproductive organs worldwide, with increasing incidence and mortality rates over the past decade. Early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment. Recently, there has been a growing focus on the role of nutrition and micronutrient and macronutrient status in patients with gynecologic cancers, including endometrial cancer. In the following paper, we have conducted an in-depth narrative literature review with the aim of evaluating the results of metallomic studies specifically concerning the micro- and macronutrient status of patients with endometrial cancer. The main objective of the paper was to analyze the results regarding the nutritional status of endometrial cancer patients and describe the role of chosen elements in the onset and progression of endometrial carcinogenesis. Further, we have focused on the evaluation of the usage of the described elements in the potential treatment of the abovementioned cancer, as well as the possible prevention of cancer considering proper supplementation of chosen elements in healthy individuals. Calcium supplementation has been proposed to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer, although some studies offer conflicting evidence. Deficiencies in phosphorus, selenium, and zinc have been inversely associated with endometrial cancer risk, suggesting they may play a protective role, whereas excessive levels of iron, copper, and cadmium have been positively correlated with increased risk. However, the molecular mechanisms by which these elements affect endometrial carcinogenesis are not fully understood, and current findings are often contradictory. Further research is needed to clarify these relationships and to evaluate the potential of nutritional interventions for the prevention and treatment of endometrial cancer.

Contraceptive strategies for reducing the risk of reproductive cancers

Reproductive cancers, encompassing various malignancies like endometrial, ovarian, cervical cancer, and gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, pose a significant global health burden. Understanding their patterns is vital for effective prevention and management. Contraceptives show a protective effect against some of these cancers. This clinical guidance document aims to elucidate the disease burden of reproductive cancers and the evidence supporting contraceptive methods in prevention and management. Regional disparities in incidence and mortality highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions, particularly in low-resource settings. Healthcare providers must weigh individual risk profiles and medical eligibility criteria when discussing contraceptive options. Enhanced health literacy through direct patient education is essential for leveraging low-cost behavioral interventions to mitigate reproductive cancer risks.

A Decision Aid for Postpartum Adolescent Family Planning: A Quasi-Experimental Study in Tanzania

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the effects of our postpartum Green Star family planning decision aid on the decisional conflict, knowledge, satisfaction, and uptake of long-acting reversible contraception among pregnant adolescents in Tanzania.

METHODS

We used a facility-based pre-post quasi-experimental design. The intervention arm received routine family planning counseling and the decision aid. The control received only routine family planning counseling. The primary outcome was the change in decisional conflict measured using the validated decision conflict scale (DCS). The secondary outcomes were knowledge, satisfaction, and contraception uptake.

RESULTS

We recruited 66 pregnant adolescents, and 62 completed this study. The intervention group had a lower mean score difference in the DCS than in the control (intervention: -24.7 vs. control: -11.6, p < 0.001). The mean score difference in knowledge was significantly higher in the intervention than in the control (intervention: 4.53 vs. control: 2.0, p < 0.001). The mean score of satisfaction was significantly higher in the intervention than in the control (intervention: 100 vs. control: 55.8, p < 0.001). Contraceptive uptake was significantly higher in the intervention [29 (45.3%)] than in the control [13 (20.3%)] (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The decision aid demonstrated positive applicability and affordability for pregnant adolescents in Tanzania.

Perspective Chapter: Modern Birth Control Methods

This chapter focuses on various modern birth control methods, including combined oral contraceptives, progestogen-only pills, progestogen-only injectables, progestogen-only implants, intrauterine devices, barrier contraceptives, and emergency contraceptive pills. Each contraceptive method is covered in detail, including mechanism of action, effectiveness, health benefits, advantages, disadvantages, risks, and side-effects.

The Intrauterine Device Experience Among Transgender and Gender-Diverse Individuals Assigned Female at Birth

INTRODUCTION

The intrauterine device (IUD) is a long-acting and highly efficacious form of contraception that can also be used for menstrual suppression. Although IUD use is increasing, the type chosen, appeal, and satisfaction among individuals who are transgender and gender diverse and assigned female at birth (TGD-AFAB) is unknown. The purpose of this study is to evaluate IUD usage among TGD-AFAB individuals.

METHODS

TGD-AFAB individuals who had an IUD for a minimum of 6 months at the time of completing the survey or had one in the past completed an anonymous online survey. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.

RESULTS

One hundred and five TGD-AFAB individuals completed the survey. Among participants who were sexually active, 88% reported they were in a relationship in which it was possible to get pregnant. There were 85 individuals who currently had an IUD: 62 (73%) chose a 52-mg levonorgestrel (LNG) IUD, 5 (6%) chose a lower-dose LNG IUD, 17 (20%) chose the copper IUD, and one chose an IUD unavailable in the United States. Menstrual suppression was the primary reason for choosing a 52-mg LNG IUD (58%). Most individuals who opted for a copper IUD did so to avoid hormonal contraception (71%). Participants reported experiencing IUD side effects; however, few desired removal. Among the 36 respondents who had an IUD in the past, the most frequent reasons for removal were expiration of the device (LNG IUDs) and undesired side effects (copper IUD). Approximately half of participants who had an IUD removed had it replaced with another IUD.

DISCUSSION

Pregnancy can occur among TGD-AFAB individuals even if they are on testosterone and amenorrheic. IUDs are well tolerated in this population, with few current users desiring removal for unwanted side effects. Clinicians should counsel TGD-AFAB individuals about the contraceptive and noncontraceptive benefits of IUDs and expected side effects.

Postpartum Green Star family planning decision aid for pregnant adolescents in Tanzania: a qualitative feasibility study

BACKGROUND

The use of a decision aid in clinical settings has been beneficial. It informs and educates patients about the available treatment options that can help them reduce decision-making conflicts related to feeling uninformed compared with routine care. There is a scarcity of published data about using a decision aid during family planning counseling with postpartum women focusing on long-acting reversible contraception in Tanzania. Therefore, we developed a "postpartum Green Star family planning decision aid" and assessed its feasibility. The study outcomes were practicality, usefulness, and acceptability perceived by pregnant adolescents and nurses/midwives.

METHODS

We used an exploratory qualitative in-depth interview involving six nurses/midwives with three or more years of experience in family planning services and 12 pregnant adolescents aged 15-19 years. Purposive sampling was used to select the participants, and selection relied on the saturation principle of data collection. We used a semi-structured interview guide translated into the Kiswahili language. Data were transcribed and analyzed following inductive content analysis.

RESULTS

The amount of information presented was just right, with the time of reading the data ranging from 20 min to 1 h. The study participants perceived the flow of information to be good, with small significant changes suggested. Kiswahili language was used and reported to be appropriate and well elaborated. However, a few words were told to be rephrased to reduce ambiguity. The nurses/midwives said that the decision aid included most of the vital information the participants wanted to know during their family planning counseling. Pregnant adolescents stated that the decision aid improved their knowledge and provided new details on the long-acting reversible contraception methods (intrauterine copper devices and implants) offered immediately after childbirth. The participants stated that the decision aid addressed long-acting reversible contraception methods' benefits and side effects and dispelled myths and misconceptions. The study participants considered the decision aid helpful in complementing the family planning counseling offered and improving pregnant adolescents' knowledge.

CONCLUSION

The postpartum Green Star family planning decision aid was practical, useful, and acceptable in enhancing the objectivity of counseling about long-acting reversible contraception methods. It improved the knowledge of pregnant adolescents in Tanzania about the available contraception methods (i.e., the use of intrauterine copper devices and implants), which can be immediately used postpartum. Further research is needed to assess the effects of the decision aid on long-acting reversible contraception postpartum uptake among pregnant adolescents in Tanzania.

Female genital mutilation and contraceptive use: findings from the 2014 Egypt demographic health survey

OBJECTIVES

Female genital mutilation (FGM) includes procedures that remove partial or total external female genitalia, or causes other injury to female genital organs with no medical reason. Physical and psychological trauma associated with FGM may interfere with a woman's ability and intent to utilize contraception. Our study examines the association between FGM and utilization of contraception methods among sexually active reproductive-aged women in Egypt.

METHODS

Data from the 2014 Egypt Demographic and Health Survey were analyzed (n = 20,055). Multinomial logistic regression was used to obtain odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

Our study found that FGM was performed on over 90% of Egyptian women and almost half (45%) of women did not use contraception. Women with FGM had significantly lower odds (OR = 0.6) of using barrier/natural contraceptive methods (e.g., condoms) than intrauterine devices (IUDs). However, women with FGM were more likely to use hormonal methods (OR = 1.2) than IUDs compared to those who had not experienced FGM.

CONCLUSIONS

In order to promote women's health and support use of effective contraception methods, a large reduction in FGM practice is essential.

Long-Acting Reversible Contraception: Specific Issues for Adolescents

Long-acting reversible contraceptives are the most effective methods to prevent pregnancy and also offer noncontraceptive benefits such as reducing menstrual blood flow and dysmenorrhea. The safety and efficacy of long-acting reversible contraception are well established for adolescents, but the rate of use remains low for this population. The pediatrician can play a key role in increasing access to long-acting reversible contraception for adolescents by providing accurate patient-centered contraception counseling and by understanding and addressing the barriers to use.

Contraception

Contraception counseling and provision are vital components of comprehensive health care. Unplanned pregnancy can be devastating to any woman but is particularly dangerous for those with chronic illness. Internal medicine providers are in a unique position to provide contraception, as they often intersect with women at the moment of a new medical diagnosis or throughout care for a chronic problem. A shared decision-making approach can engage patients and ensure that they choose a contraceptive method that aligns with their reproductive plans and medical needs.

Sonographically guided insertion of intrauterine device: Indications and results

From 2011 to 2015, a total of 67 patients were referred for IUD insertion guided with transabdominal sonography (TAS). Fifty-six of the 67 patients had successful IUD insertion under TAS guidance. The clinical indications for referral included fibroids, uterine position, previous history of IUD expulsion, and limited tolerance of pelvic examination. Reasons for failed TAS-guided IUD insertion included patient discomfort, cervical stenosis, and inability to remove and replace an existing device. Ultrasound guidance could help broaden the patient population that may benefit from the therapeutic value of an IUD.

Contraceptive Care of Obese Women

Importance

In the United States, 27% of reproductive-aged women are overweight, and 35% are obese. Until recently, contraceptive research excluded women greater than 130% of their ideal body weight. Gaps in data limit evidence-based decision making for effective contraceptive counseling and management in this rapidly growing population.

Objectives

The aims of this summary are to review the benefits, adverse effects, and risk factors associated with contraceptive methods in obese women, with special attention to effectiveness, and provide contraceptive management and counseling recommendations for best clinical practice.

Evidence Acquisition

We performed a thorough search of PubMed for current literature, including original research articles, review articles, and guidelines on contraceptive counseling and management in obese women in the United States. We reviewed the body of evidence with special attention to studies published since recent Cochrane and systematic reviews on this topic.

Conclusions

Contraceptive use is safer than pregnancy, especially for obese women who have increased pregnancy risks. Baseline health is compromised by obesity, but contraceptive risks remain low. Long-acting, reversible contraceptive methods offer superior effectiveness, minimal risk, and numerous noncontraceptive benefits across body mass index groups. No substantial evidence supports ineffectiveness of any method in obese women except oral emergency contraception and the patch. Pharmacokinetic changes of obesity associated with other oral methods do not seem to result in clinically significant declines in effectiveness. Future contraceptive efficacy studies should include obese women to better discuss their contraceptive needs.

Relevance

This review is beneficial for all providers caring for reproductive-aged women wanting to avoid unintended pregnancy.

Extended Effectiveness of the Etonogestrel-Releasing Contraceptive Implant and the 20 µg Levonorgestrel-Releasing Intrauterine System for 2 Years Beyond U.S. Food and Drug Administration Product Labeling

Recently published evidence from 2 large studies find that the duration of effectiveness of the etonorgestrel-releasing contraceptive implant to be at least 5 years (compared with the current 3-year label), and for the 20 µg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system at least 7 years (compared with the current 5-year label).

Global trends in use of long-acting reversible and permanent methods of contraception: Seeking a balance

The global trend shows that the use of permanent contraception to prevent unintended pregnancy is high. Although the trend also shows a rise in the use of long-acting reversible methods, these are still underutilized despite having contraceptive as well as non-contraceptive benefits. Lack of knowledge among women, dependence on the provider for information, and provider bias for permanent contraception are cited as reasons for this reduced uptake. Training of healthcare providers and increased patient awareness about the effectiveness of long-acting reversible contraceptive methods will increase their uptake and help prevent unintended pregnancies.

Use of the etonogestrel implant and levonorgestrel intrauterine device beyond the U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved duration

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of the contraceptive implant and the 52-mg hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) in women using the method beyond the current U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved duration of 3 and 5 years, respectively.

METHODS

Women willing to continue using their implant or 52-mg levonorgestrel IUD beyond the FDA-approved duration were followed prospectively for contraceptive effectiveness. Unintended pregnancy rate per 100 women-years was calculated. Implant users are offered periodic venipuncture for analysis of serum etonogestrel levels. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the etonogestrel levels across body mass index (BMI) groups.

RESULTS

Implant users (n=237) have contributed 229.4 women-years of follow-up, with 123 using the etonogestrel implant for 4 years and 34 using it for 5 years. Zero pregnancies have been documented, for a failure rate of 0 (one-sided 97.5% confidence interval [CI] 0-1.61) per 100 women-years. Among 263 levonorgestrel IUD users, 197.7 women-years of follow-up have been completed. One pregnancy was confirmed, for a failure rate of 0.51 (95% CI 0.01-2.82) per 100 women-years. Among implant users with serum etonogestrel results, the median and range of etonogestrel level at 3 years of use was 188.8 pg/mL (range 63.8-802.6 pg/mL) and 177.0 pg/mL (67.9-470.5 pg/mL) at 4 years of use. Etonogestrel levels did not differ by BMI at either time point (3 years: P=.79; 4 years: P=.47).

CONCLUSION

Preliminary findings indicate the contraceptive implant and 52-mg hormonal IUD continue to be highly effective for an additional year beyond the FDA-approved 3 and 5 years. Serum etonogestrel levels indicate the implant contains adequate hormone for ovulation suppression at the end of both 3 and 4 years of use.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Intrauterine devices and other forms of contraception: thinking outside the pack

A variety of contraception options are available in addition to traditional combined oral contraceptive pills. Newer long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods such as intrauterine devices and subcutaneous implants are preferred because they do not depend on patient compliance. They are highly effective and appropriate for most women. Female and male sterilization are other effective but they are irreversible and require counseling to minimize regret. The contraceptive injection, patch, and ring do not require daily administration, but their typical efficacy rates are lower than LARC methods and similar to those for combined oral contraceptive pills.

Introduction of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system in Kenya through mobile outreach: review of service statistics and provider perspectives

Limited introduction of the LNG IUS through mobile outreach in Kenya, without any special promotion, resulted in good uptake. And providers viewed it positively, particularly because of its noncontraceptive benefits. Increased provision of the LNG IUS can improve options for women needing highly effective reversible contraception.

Background:

The levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG IUS) was developed over 30 years ago, but the product is currently too expensive for widespread use in many developing countries. In Kenya, one organization has received donated commodities for 5 years, providing an opportunity to assess impact and potential future role of the product.

Methods:

We reviewed service statistics on insertions of the LNG IUS, copper intrauterine device (IUD), and subdermal implant from 15 mobile outreach teams during the 2011 calendar year. To determine the impact of the LNG IUS introduction, we analyzed changes in uptake and distribution of the copper IUD and subdermal implant by comparing periods of time when the LNG IUS was available with periods when it was not available. In addition, we interviewed 27 clinicians to assess their views of the product and of its future role.

Results:

When the LNG IUS was not available, intrauterine contraception accounted for 39% of long-acting method provision. The addition of the LNG IUS created a slight rise in intrauterine contraception uptake (to 44%) at the expense of the subdermal implant, but the change was only marginally significant (P = .08) and was largely attributable to the copper IUD. All interviewed providers felt that the LNG IUS would increase uptake of long-acting methods, and 70% felt that the noncontraceptive benefits of the product are important to clients.

Conclusions:

The LNG IUS was well-received among providers and family planning clients in this population in Kenya. Although important changes in service statistics were not apparent from this analysis (perhaps due to the small quantity of LNG IUS that was available), provider enthusiasm for the product was high. This finding, above all, suggests that a larger-scale introduction effort would have strong support from providers and thus increase the chances of success. Adding another proven and highly acceptable long-acting contraceptive technology to the method mix could have important reproductive health impact.

Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system use in premenopausal women with symptomatic uterine leiomyoma: a systematic review

A systematic review is done to determine the efficacy and safety of levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems as a treatment using in premenopausal women with symptomatic uterine leiomyoma. We searched the Medline, Central and ICTRP databases for all articles published from inception through July 2013 that examined the following outcomes: uterine volume, uterine leiomyoma volume, endometrial thickness, then menstrual blood loss, blood haemoglobin, ferritin and hematocrit levels, treatment failure rate, device expulsion rate, hysterectomy rate and side effects. From 645 studies, a total of 11 studies met our inclusion criteria with sample sizes ranging from 10 to 104. Evidence suggested that levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems could decrease uterine volume and endometrial thickness, significantly reduce menstrual blood loss, and increase blood haemoglobin, ferritin and hematocrit levels. There was no evidence for decreasing uterine leiomyoma volume. There were no adverse effects on the ovarian function except for ovarian cysts. Device expulsion rates were low, which associated with leiomyoma size (larger than 3cm) but not with leiomyoma location. Irregular bleeding/spotting was observed at the beginning of the follow-up period and then decreased progressively. Results of this systematic review indicate that levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems may be effective and safe treatment for symptomatic uterine leiomyoma in premenopausal women.

Complication rates associated with levonorgestrel intrauterine system use in adolescents with developmental disabilities

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To assess the complication rates with the use of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG IUS) in adolescents with developmental disabilities.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review of all adolescents with developmental disabilities taken to the operating room for LNG IUS insertion between January 2000 and July 2009 at the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia. Cases identified from the surgical database, and medical records reviewed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Complication rates with LNG IUS use in adolescents with development disabilities: non-insertion, uterine perforation, infection, and expulsion.

RESULTS

Fifty-six adolescents with developmental disabilities had an attempted LNG IUS insertion. The average age at insertion was 15.6 years (range 10.5-21.5 y). The LNG IUS was used as first line therapy in 14 cases (25%). Pre-insertion ultrasonography was ordered in 48% of cases, out of which 5 cases had uterine lengths <6 cm. Despite this, 4 of these cases had successful insertions. Two insertion attempts were abandoned intra-operatively (3.6%); one due to inadequate uterine length of 4 cm, and the other due to anatomic distortion. One spontaneous expulsion occurred at approximately 5 months (1.9%). Four IUDs were removed prematurely (7.4% withdrawal rate); 1 for persistent abdominal pain, 1 for irregular bleeding, and 2 for suspected malpositions. There were no documented cases of infection, perforation, or pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

Our experience in this population has been very positive and confirms that complication rates are comparable to that in adults.

Understanding benefits and addressing misperceptions and barriers to intrauterine device access among populations in the United States

Three intrauterine devices (IUDs), one copper and two containing the progestin levonorgestrel, are available for use in the United States. IUDs offer higher rates of contraceptive efficacy than nonlong-acting methods, and several studies have demonstrated higher satisfaction rates and continuation rates of any birth control method. This efficacy is not affected by age or parity. The safety of IUDs is well studied, and the risks of pelvic inflammatory disease, perforation, expulsion, and ectopic pregnancy are all of very low incidence. Noncontraceptive benefits include decreased menstrual blood loss, improved dysmenorrhea, improved pelvic pain associated with endometriosis, and protection of the endometrium from hyperplasia. The use of IUDs is accepted in patients with multiple medical problems who may have contraindications to other birth control methods. Yet despite well-published data, concerns and misperceptions still persist, especially among younger populations and nulliparous women. Medical governing bodies advocate for use of IUDs in these populations, as safety and efficacy is unchanged, and IUDs have been shown to decrease unintended pregnancies. Dispersion of accurate information among patients and practitioners is needed to further increase the acceptability and use of IUDs.

Evidence-based selection of candidates for the levonorgestrel intrauterine device (IUD)

BACKGROUND

Recent evidence-based guidelines expanded the definition of appropriate candidates for the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS). We investigated correlates of evidence-based selection of candidates for the LNG-IUS by physicians who offer insertion.

METHODS

We conducted a mixed-mode (online and mail) survey of practicing family physicians and obstetrician-gynecologists in Seattle.

RESULTS

A total of 269 physicians responded to the survey (44% response rate). Of the 217 respondents who inserted intrauterine devices, half or fewer routinely recommended the LNG-IUS to women who are nulliparous, younger than 20 years old, or have a history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In multivariable analyses, training/resident status was positively associated with recommending the LNG-IUS to women <20 years old (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 3.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.6-8.0) and women with history of STI (aOR, 3.7; 95% CI, 1.6-8.4). Perceived risk of infection or infertility was negatively associated with recommending the LNG-IUS to nulliparous women (aOR, 0.2; 95% CI, 0.1-0.5) and women with a history of STI (aOR, 0.3; 95% CI, 0.1-0.8).

CONCLUSIONS

Many family physicians and obstetrician-gynecologists who insert the LNG-IUS are overly restrictive in selecting candidates, although those who train residents are more likely to follow evidence-based guidelines. Interventions that address negative bias and perceptions of risks, in addition to improving knowledge, are needed to promote wider use of the LNG-IUS.

Myths and misconceptions about long-acting reversible contraception (LARC)

PURPOSE

To discuss common myths and misconceptions about long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) among patients and health care providers.

METHODS

We address some of these common myths in an effort to provide clinicians with accurate information to discuss options with patients, parents, and referring providers. The list of myths was created through an informal survey of an online listserv of 200 family planning experts and from the experiences of the authors.

RESULTS

When presented with information about LARC, adolescents are more likely to request LARC and are satisfied with LARC. Clinicians have an important role in counseling about and providing LARC to their adolescent patients as well as supporting them in managing associated side effects.

CONCLUSIONS

This review article can be used as a resource for contraceptive counseling visits and for the continuing education of health professionals providing adolescent reproductive health care.

Hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels in women using copper-releasing or levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine devices: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The use of intrauterine devices as a contraceptive method has been steadily growing in developing countries. Anemia in reproductive-age women is a growing concern in those settings.

STUDY DESIGN

A systematic review of studies with measured hemoglobin and serum ferritin at baseline and after 1 year of use of copper intrauterine devices (IUDs) or a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG IUS) was performed.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies involving copper IUDs in nonanemic women and 4 studies in anemic women and 6 involving the LNG IUS met the criteria for the systematic review. Meta-analyses for hemoglobin changes showed significant decreases for users of copper IUDs and an increase for the LNG IUS, but with limited data. In general, ferritin levels followed the same pattern.

CONCLUSION

Decreases in hemoglobin mean values in copper IUD users were not sufficient to induce anemia in previously nonanemic women. Women who are borderline anemic would likely benefit from using the LNG IUS.

Long-acting reversible contraception for adolescents

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Teen pregnancy continues to plague the United States. This review will discuss long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) method use in teens, comprising intrauterine devices and subdermal implants.

RECENT FINDINGS

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists along with the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Centers for Disease Control, and the World Health Organization have recognized the potential impact of LARC (comprising intrauterine contraception and subdermal implants) to reduce unintended pregnancies. They have affirmed the safety of such devices, and no effects on long-term fertility have been identified. Teen users of these methods have been shown to have high continuation and satisfaction rates. On the contrary, oral contraceptive pills, the patch, and the contraceptive vaginal ring have significantly higher contraceptive failure rates, and these rates are magnified in young women.

SUMMARY

LARC methods should be considered first-line options for teens seeking contraception.

Adolescent contraception: review and guidance for pediatric clinicians

The objectives of this article are to review current contraceptive methods available to adolescents and to provide information, guidance, and encouragement to pediatric clinicians to enable them to engage in informed up-to-date interactions with their sexually active adolescent patients. Pregnancy prevention is a complex and dynamic process, and young people benefit from having a reliable authoritative source for information, counseling, and support. Clinicians who provide services for adolescents have a responsibility to develop their skills and knowledge base so that they can serve as that source. This review begins with a discussion about adolescent sexuality and pregnancy in the context of the adolescent developmental stages. We discuss approaches to introduce the topic of contraception during the clinic visit and contraceptive counseling techniques to assist with the discussion around this topic. In addition, information is included regarding confidential services, support of parental involvement, and the importance of male involvement in contraception. The specific contraceptive methods are reviewed in detail with the adolescent patient in mind. For each method, we discuss the mechanism of action, efficacy, contraindications, benefits and risks from the medical perspective, advantages and disadvantages from the patient's perspective, side effects, patient adherence, patient counseling, and any medication interactions. Furthermore, we have included a section that focuses on the contraceptive management for the adolescent patient with a disability and/or chronic illness. The article concludes with an approach to frequently asked or difficult questions. This section largely summarizes subsections on specific contraceptive methods and can be used as a quick reference on particularly challenging topics. Finally, a list of useful contraceptive management resources is provided for both clinicians and patients.

Efficacy and safety of long-acting reversible contraception

Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) includes intrauterine devices (IUDs) and the subdermal implant. These methods are the most effective reversible methods of contraception, and have the additional advantages of being long-lasting, convenient, well liked by users and cost effective. Compared with other user-dependent methods that increase the risk of noncompliance-related method failure, LARC methods can bring 'typical use' failure rates more in line with 'perfect use' failure rates. LARC methods are 'forgettable'; they are not dependent on compliance with a pill-taking regimen, remembering to change a patch or ring, or coming back to the clinician for an injection. LARC method failure rates rival that of tubal sterilization at <1% for IUDs and the subdermal implant. For these reasons, we believe that IUDs and implants should be offered as first-line contraception for most women. This article provides a review of the LARC methods that are currently available in the US, including their effectiveness, advantages, disadvantages and contraindications. Additionally, we dispel myths and misconceptions regarding IUDs, and address the barriers to LARC use.

State-of-the-art of non-hormonal methods of contraception: III. Intrauterine devices

Since the 1959 revival of the IUD, non-hormonal devices have become the most widely used of all reversible contraceptives. Pregnancy rates of copper-releasing IUDs in current use range from approximately 0.5 to 1.5 per hundred continuing users in the first year, with somewhat lower annual pregnancy rates thereafter. Evidence-based research has been systematically conducted and translated into guidelines for eligibility criteria and problem management. Recent device research, beyond the T, Multiload and frameless devices has centred on improved designs such as U ,Y and Slimline shapes, or enhanced copper release, the latter through electrochemical effects or nanotechnology applications. Other IUD research foci concern devices that decrease bleeding and pain by releasing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Yet other research lines indicate noncontraceptive benefits of copper intrauterine devices in protecting against endometrial cancer, and favourable risk-benefit analyses of IUD use by women at risk of or post HIV infection. IUD mechanisms of action and the relation of IUDs to pelvic infection and ectopic pregnancy are briefly reviewed. For our literature search we used Medline, Popline and Cochrane Library data bases, Google search, our personal files, and the references contained in articles in our files.

The epidemiology of endometrial and ovarian cancer

This review highlights similarities in the epidemiology of endometrial and ovarian cancer, including highly correlated incidence rates and similar risk factor profiles. Factors that decrease risk for both cancers include a late menarche, early age at first birth, giving birth and breastfeeding, and use of oral contraceptives. Short or irregular cycles and late menopause are associated with increased risk for both. Other risk factors that appear to operate in a similar direction include decreased risk associated with IUD use or a tubal ligation, and increased risk associated with obesity, lack of exercise, and use of talc powders in genital hygiene. Estrogen excess is proposed as the underlying mechanism for most endometrial cancers, whereas incessant ovulation has been suggested as the explanation for ovarian cancer. However, an increased number of estimated ovulatory cycles correlates directly with risk for both endometrial and ovarian cancer, suggesting that reproductive tissue turnover with an accumulation of PTEN or p53 mutations represents a possible common mechanism. An immune-based explanation involving mucin proteins represents another common mechanism that could explain additional risk factors. Maintenance of ideal weight, breastfeeding children, use of oral contraceptives, and avoidance of talc powders in genital hygiene are measures that could lower the risk for both types of cancer. Careful selection of patients for prophylactic oophorectomy for those women who are coming to hysterectomy for benign disease is an additional measure to consider for ovarian cancer.

A study investigating obstetricians' and gynaecologists' management of women requesting an intrauterine device

BACKGROUND

Intrauterine methods including the copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD) and the levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) provide highly effective long-term reversible contraception. The reasons for relative low use of these methods in Australia compared to many European countries are not clear, but may in part relate to provider reluctance because of outdated knowledge about their safety and efficacy.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to survey Australian Fellows of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists about their knowledge of the risks, benefits and mechanisms of action of intrauterine methods.

METHODS

In 2008, we undertook a cross-sectional survey of all Australian Fellows not registered as a subspecialist. The survey was mailed to 1050 practitioners and 701 were returned, comprising a response rate of 67%.

RESULTS

Knowledge about the LNG-IUS was significantly better than for the Cu-IUD in terms of correct understanding about mechanism of action (89.3% vs. 30%; P < 0.001) and efficacy (63.2% vs. 33.5%; P < 0.001). According to the WHO, both methods are considered suitable for use in nulliparous women, yet only 39.1% of providers believed the Cu-IUD suitable compared to 69.4% for the LNG-IUS (P < 0.001). When responses were analysed according to time from graduation, many aspects of knowledge about these devices showed a linear trend, with greater accuracy in recent graduates (<10 years) compared with graduates of more than 30 years.

CONCLUSION

Both methods are highly effective, non-user dependent and reversible and deserve greater understanding and consideration for use by Australian practitioners and women.

Safety, efficacy and patient acceptability of the contraceptive and non-contraceptive uses of the LNG-IUS

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) provide highly effective, long-term, safe, reversible contraception, and are the most widely used reversible contraceptive method worldwide. The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) is a T-shaped IUD with a steroid reservoir containing 52 mg of levonorgestrel that is released at an initial rate of 20 μg daily. It is highly effective, with a typical-use first year pregnancy rate of 0.1% - similar to surgical tubal occlusion. It is approved for 5 years of contraceptive use, and there is evidence that it can be effective for up to 7 years of continuous use. After removal, there is rapid return to fertility, with 1-year life-table pregnancy rates of 89 per 100 for women less than 30 years of age. Most users experience a dramatic reduction in menstrual bleeding, and about 15% to 20% of women become amenorrheic 1 year after insertion. The device's strong local effects on the endometrium benefit women with various benign gynecological conditions such as menorrhagia, dysmenorrhea, leiomyomata, adenomyosis, and endometriosis. There is also evidence to support its role in endometrial protection during postmenopausal estrogen replacement therapy, and in the treatment of endometrial hyperplasia.

Bridging the gaps between research, policy and practice in low- and middle-income countries: a survey of health care providers

BACKGROUND

Gaps continue to exist between research-based evidence and clinical practice. We surveyed health care providers in 10 low- and middle-income countries about their use of research-based evidence and examined factors that may facilitate or impede such use.

METHODS

We surveyed 1499 health care providers practising in one of four areas relevant to the Millennium Development Goals (prevention of malaria, care of women seeking contraception, care of children with diarrhea and care of patients with tuberculosis) in each of China, Ghana, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Laos, Mexico, Pakistan, Senegal and Tanzania.

RESULTS

The proportion of respondents who reported that research was likely to change their clinical practice if performed and published in their own country (84.6% and 86.0% respectively) was higher than the proportion who reported the same about research and publications from their region (66.4% and 63.1%) or from high-income countries (55.8% and 55.5%). Respondents who were most likely to report that the use of research-based evidence led to changes in their practice included those who reported using clinical practice guidelines in paper format (odds ratio [OR] 1.54, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03-2.28), using scientific journals from their own country in paper format (OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.26-2.28), viewing the quality of research performed in their country as above average or excellent (OR 1.93, 95% CI 1.16-3.22); trusting systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials (OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.08-2.35); and having easy access to the Internet (OR 1.90, 95% CI 1.19-3.02).

INTERPRETATION

Locally conducted or published research has played an important role in changing the professional practice of health care providers surveyed in low- and middle-income countries. Increased investments in local research, or at least in locally adapted publications of research-based evidence from other settings, are therefore needed. Although access to the Internet was viewed as a significant factor in whether research-based evidence led to concrete changes in practice, few respondents reported having easy access to the Internet. Therefore, efforts to improve Internet access in clinical settings need to be accelerated.

Bridging the gaps among research, policy and practice in ten low- and middle-income countries: development and testing of a questionnaire for researchers

Background

A questionnaire could assist researchers, policymakers, and healthcare providers to describe and monitor changes in efforts to bridge the gaps among research, policy and practice. No questionnaire focused on researchers' engagement in bridging activities related to high-priority topics (or the potential correlates of their engagement) has been developed and tested in a range of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Methods

Country teams from ten LMICs (China, Ghana, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Laos, Mexico, Pakistan, Senegal, and Tanzania) participated in the development and testing of a questionnaire. To assess reliability we calculated the internal consistency of items within each of the ten conceptual domains related to bridging activities (specifically Cronbach's alpha). To assess face and content validity we convened several teleconferences and a workshop. To assess construct validity we calculated the correlation between scales and counts (i.e., criterion measures) for the three countries that employed both and we calculated the correlation between different but theoretically related (i.e., convergent) measures for all countries.

Results

Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) for sets of related items was very high, ranging from 0.89 (0.86-0.91) to 0.96 (0.95-0.97), suggesting some item redundancy. Both face and content validity were determined to be high. Assessments of construct validity using criterion-related measures showed statistically significant associations for related measures (with gammas ranging from 0.36 to 0.73). Assessments using convergent measures also showed significant associations (with gammas ranging from 0.30 to 0.50).

Conclusions

While no direct comparison can be made to a comparable questionnaire, our findings do suggest a number of strengths of the questionnaire but also the need to reduce item redundancy and to test its capacity to monitor changes over time.

Molecular pathogenesis of endometrial and ovarian cancer

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and oral contraceptive pill use interrupt menstrual cycles and reduce endometrial and ovarian cancer risk. This suggests the importance of turnover within Mullerian tissues, where the accumulation of mutations in p53 and PTEN has been correlated with number of cycles. The most common type of endometrial cancer (Type I) is endometrioid and molecular abnormalities include mutations in PTEN, KRAS and β-catenin. The Type I precursor is Endometrial Intraepithelial Neoplasia which displays PTEN defects. Type II endometrial cancer (whose precursors are less clear) includes serous and clear cell tumors and the most common alteration is p53 mutation. For ovarian cancer, histopathologic types parallel endometrial cancer and include serous, mucinous, endometrioid, and clear cell; some molecular features are also shared. The most frequent type of ovarian cancer is high grade serous that often displays p53 mutation and its precursor lesions may originate from normal-appearing fallopian tube epithelium that contains a p53 "signature". Mutations in KRAS, BRAF and PTEN are described in mucinous, endometrioid and low grade serous cancers and these may originate from ovarian cortical inclusion cysts. A consideration of molecular and other pathogenetic features, like epidemiology and histopathology, may provide a better understanding of endometrial and ovarian cancer.