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

3D printing chronicles in medical devices and pharmaceuticals: tracing the evolution and historical milestones

The objective of this study is to collect the significant advancements of 3D printed medical devices in the biomedical area in recent years. Especially related to a range of diseases and the polymers employed in drug administration. To address the existing limitations and constraints associated with the method used for producing 3D printed medical devices, in order to optimize their suitability for degradation. The compilation and use of research papers, reports, and patents that are relevant to the key keywords are employed to improve comprehension. According to this thorough investigation, it can be inferred that the 3D Printing method, specifically Fuse Deposition Modeling (FDM), is the most suitable and convenient approach for preparing medical devices. This study provides an analysis and summary of the development trend of 3D printed implantable medical devices, focusing on the production process, materials specially the polymers, and typical items associated with 3D printing technology. This study offers a comprehensive examination of nanocarrier research and its corresponding discoveries. The FDM method, which is already facing significant challenges in terms of achieving optimal performance and cost reduction, will experience remarkable advantages from this highly valuable technology. The objective of this analysis is to showcase the efficacy and limitations of 3D-printing applications in medical devices through thorough research, highlighting the significant technological advancements it offers. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the most recent research and discoveries on 3D-printed medical devices, offering significant insights into their study.

Vitamin D Supplementation Selectively Affects Peripheral Lymphocyte Subsets in Infertile Women

Background

This study aimed to explore the effect of vitamin D supplementation on lymphocyte subsets in infertile women.

Methods

The study involved a total of 247 patients who suffered recurrent embryo implantation failure (RIF) or recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) between January and December 2019 in the Reproductive Medicine Center of Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi. The differences in the vitamin D and lymphocyte subsets of the two diseases, the correlation between the 25-hydroxy vitamin D and lymphocyte subsets, the changes in the lymphocyte subsets after vitamin D supplementation and the impact on pregnancy outcome were analysed.

Results

The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 77.33% (191/247). After vitamin D supplementation, there were no significant differences in helper T cells (Th), cytotoxic T cells (Tc), Th/Tc and natural killer cells (NK) (p > 0.05), but there were significant differences in leukocyte differentiation antigens 3+ (CD3+), natural killer T cells (NKT), B lymphocytes and vitamin D (p < 0.05). Before vitamin D supplementation, the difference in the composition ratio of different vitamin D levels between the RIF and RSA groups was not statistically significant. At different vitamin D levels, there were no significant differences in CD3+, Th, Tc, Th/Tc, NK or B lymphocyte (p > 0.05), but there was a significant difference in NKT (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Vitamin D supplementation can reduce the level of NKT in infertile women, which may be of benefit to the pregnancy outcome of couples who experience RIF.

Use of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) for Pain Management During Intrauterine Device Insertion: A Case Series

This case series details the use of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for pain management during intrauterine device (IUD) insertion in three different patients. We used a 100 mm horizontal line visual analog scale (VAS) to assess pain associated with the procedure. Case 1 is a 39-year-old primiparous female with a past medical history of depression who presented to the clinic for Mirena IUD insertion. The patient rated overall pain during the procedure as 10 mm, with the most discomfort during IUD placement inside the uterus, which she rated 20 mm. Case 2 is a 16-year-old nulliparous female with no significant past medical history who presented for Mirena IUD insertion. The patient rated overall pain during the procedure as 40 mm, with the most discomfort during IUD placement inside the uterus, which she rated 45 mm. Case 3 is a 37-year-old multiparous female with no significant past medical history who also received a Mirena IUD. She rated overall pain during the procedure as 20 mm. All patients reported lower pain scores when compared to previously reported median pain scores associated with the procedure, highlighting the analgesic effects of TENS.

Hormonal intrauterine devices and heat exchange during exercise

Synthetic progestins in oral contraceptives are thought to blunt heat dissipation by reducing skin blood flow and sweating. However, whether progestin-releasing intrauterine devices (IUDs) modulate heat loss during exercise-heat stress is unknown. We used direct calorimetry to measure whole-body total (dry + evaporative) heat loss in young, physically active women (mean (SD); aged 24 (4) years,V ̇ O 2 peak ${\dot V_{{{\mathrm{O}}_{\mathrm{2}}}{\mathrm{peak}}}}$ 39.3 (5.3) ml/kg/min) with (IUD; n = 19) and without (Control; n = 17) IUDs in the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle during light- and moderate-intensity exercise at fixed rates of heat production (∼175 and ∼275 W/m2 ) in 30°C, ∼21% relative humidity. Between-group and -phase differences were evaluated using traditional hypothesis testing and statistical equivalence testing within pre-determined bounds (±11 W/m2 ; difference required to elicit a ±0.3°C difference in core temperature over 1 h) in each exercise bout. Whole-body total heat loss was statistically equivalent between groups within ±11 W m-2 (IUD-Control [90% CIs]; Light: -2 [-8, 5] W/m2 , P = 0.007; Moderate: 0 [-6, 6] W/m2 , P = 0.002), as were dry and evaporative heat loss (P ≤ 0.023), except for evaporative heat loss during moderate-intensity exercise (equivalence: P = 0.063, difference: P = 0.647). Whole-body total and evaporative heat loss were not different between phases (P ≥ 0.267), but dry heat loss was 3 [95% CIs: 1, 5] W/m2 greater in the luteal phase (P ≤ 0.022). Despite this, all whole-body heat loss outcomes were equivalent between phases (P ≤ 0.003). These findings expand our understanding of the factors that modulate heat exchange in women and provide valuable mechanistic insight of the role of endogenous and exogenous female sex hormones in thermoregulation. KEY POINTS: Progestin released by hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) may negatively impact heat dissipation during exercise by blunting skin blood flow and sweating. However, the influence of IUDs on thermoregulation has not previously been assessed. We used direct calorimetry to show that IUD users and non-users display statistically equivalent whole-body dry and evaporative heat loss, body heat storage and oesophageal temperature during moderate- and high-intensity exercise in a warm, dry environment, indicating that IUDs do not appear to compromise exercise thermoregulation. However, within IUD users and non-users, dry heat loss was increased and body heat storage and oesophageal temperature were reduced in the luteal compared to the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle, though these effects were small and unlikely to be practically meaningful. Together, these findings expand our understanding of the factors that modulate heat exchange in women and have important practical implications for the design of future studies of exercise thermoregulation.

Hormonal Contraceptives Reduce Active Symptomatic Disease but May Increase Intestinal Inflammation in IBD

BACKGROUND

Among women of reproductive age with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), we aimed to assess the relationship of hormonal contraceptives (HCs) with IBD-related symptoms, and intestinal inflammation.

METHODS

A nested cohort of women in the longitudinal Manitoba Living with IBD Study, ages 18 to 49, were followed for 1 year, with bi-weekly online surveys. This included a validated measure of disease activity; IBD Symptom Inventory (IBDSI), and stool samples obtained at 3 time-points for assessment of fecal calprotectin (FCAL). Use of HC included oral and vaginal intrauterine devices. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association between HC and IBD-related symptoms (IBDSI>14 for Crohn disease, >13 for ulcerative colitis), or inflammation (FCAL>250 ug/g) at any measurement point in the study.

RESULTS

Of 71 women, 17 (24%) reported taking HC in the 1 year period. Adjusting for age, disease type, disease duration, and smoking status, the odds of having increased IBD-related symptoms (IBDSI) during the year were lower for women using HC compared with women not using HC [adjusted odds ratio 0.16, 95% CI, 0.02-0.90]. Conversely, women using HC were more likely to have inflammation during the year [adjusted odds ratio 5.7, 95% CI, 1.23-43.6].

CONCLUSIONS

HC use among women with IBD was associated with a lower likelihood of IBD-related symptoms but a higher likelihood of experiencing intestinal inflammation (FCAL>250 ug/g) over 1 year. Further work is needed to examine this dichotomous result, potentially examining aspects such as duration of HC use, and the types of HC.

Exploring Language Used in Posts on r/birthcontrol: Case Study Using Data From Reddit Posts and Natural Language Processing to Advance Contraception Research

BACKGROUND

Contraceptive choice is central to reproductive autonomy. The internet, including social networking sites like Reddit, is an important resource for people seeking contraceptive information and support. A subreddit dedicated to contraception, r/birthcontrol, provides a platform for people to post about contraception.

OBJECTIVE

This study explored the use of r/birthcontrol, from the inception of the subreddit through the end of 2020. We describe the web-based community, identify distinctive interests and themes based upon the textual content of posts, and explore the content of posts with the most user engagement (ie, "popular" posts).

METHODS

Data were obtained from the PushShift Reddit application programming interface from the establishment of r/birthcontrol to the start date of analysis (July 21, 2011, to December 31, 2020). User interactions within the subreddit were analyzed to describe community use over time, specifically the commonality of use based on the volume of posts, the length of posts (character count), and the proportion of posts with any and each flair applied. "Popular" posts on r/birthcontrol were determined based on the number of comments and "scores," or upvotes minus downvotes; popular posts had 9 comments and a score of ≥3. Term Frequency-Inverse Document Frequency (TF-IDF) analyses were run on all posts with flairs applied, posts within each flair group, and popular posts within each flair group to characterize and compare the distinctive language used in each group.

RESULTS

There were 105,485 posts to r/birthcontrol during the study period, with the volume of posts increasing over time. Within the time frame for which flairs were available on r/birthcontrol (after February 4, 2016), users applied flairs to 78% (n=73,426) of posts. Most posts contained exclusively textual content (n=66,071, 96%), had comments (n=59,189, 86%), and had a score (n=66,071, 96%). Posts averaged 731 characters in length (median 555). "SideEffects!?" was the most frequently used flair overall (n=27,530, 40%), while "Experience" (n=719, 31%) and "SideEffects!?" (n=672, 29%) were most common among popular posts. TF-IDF analyses of all posts showed interest in contraceptive methods, menstrual experiences, timing, feelings, and unprotected sex. While TF-IDF results for posts with each flair varied, the contraceptive pill, menstrual experiences, and timing were discussed across flair groups. Among popular posts, intrauterine devices and contraceptive use experiences were often discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

People commonly wrote about contraceptive side effects and experiences using methods, highlighting the value of r/birthcontrol as a space to post about aspects of contraceptive use that are not well addressed by clinical contraceptive counseling. The value of real-time, open-access data on contraceptive users' interests is especially high given the shifting landscape of and increasing constraints on reproductive health care in the United States.

The Impact of Histone Modifications in Endometriosis Highlights New Therapeutic Opportunities

Endometriosis is a chronic disorder of the female reproductive system which afflicts a great number of women worldwide. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) prevent the relaxation of chromatin, thereby positively or negatively modulating gene transcription. The current review aims at studying the impact of histone modifications and their therapeutic targeting in endometriosis. In order to identify relevant studies, a literature review was conducted using the MEDLINE and LIVIVO databases. The current manuscript represents the most comprehensive, up-to-date review of the literature focusing on the particular role of HDACs and their inhibitors in the context of endometriosis. HDAC1, HDAC2, HDAC3, Sirtuin 1, and Sirtuin 3, are the five most studied HDAC enzymes which seem to, at least partly, influence the pathophysiology of endometriosis. Both well-established and novel HDACIs could possibly represent modern, efficacious anti-endometriotic drug agents. Altogether, histone modifications and their therapeutic targeting have been proven to have a strong impact on endometriosis.

Long-acting intrauterine systems: Recent advances, current challenges, and future opportunities

Levonorgestrel intrauterine systems (LNG-IUSs) are complex drug-device combination products designed to release a hormonal contraceptive drug for up to 7 years. These drug delivery systems offers a great promise as a modern method of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) to improve women's health. Unfortunately, there are some scientific challenges associated with the development of these products which are among the major reasons contributing to the availability of relatively few IUS products on the market. This review summarizes the formulation considerations (drug and excipient attributes), manufacturing methods, advances in characterization and in vitro drug release testing of IUSs, as well as factors influencing drug release from IUSs. A critical discussion on the major challenges to IUS product development is presented. Specifically, insights on bioequivalence evaluation, in vitro-in vivo correlation (IVIVC) establishment, and regulatory challenges are detailed. Lastly, methodological tools to overcome some of these hurdles to product development are proposed. The knowledge furnished through this review will be helpful towards obtaining better product understanding. Such understanding will facilitate the development of these complex drug products, as well as their regulatory approval process.

Women's preferences and acceptance for different drug delivery routes and products

To use or not to use, that is the first decision to take regarding a drug product. This mandatory step for adherence dictates product efficacy. The determinants for such decision do not only rely on the priority of the therapeutic or preventive strategy, but are related to a complex network of perceptions, preferences, personal and cultural backgrounds, and results from previous experiences. Women's preferences for dosage forms and even for drug delivery routes have been mainly studied in the fields of contraception and HIV prevention (and their related multipurpose approaches). Much less attention has been devoted to other therapeutic or preventive strategies. In a time when patient-centred approaches and shared decisions are increasingly valued, considering women's preferences and their main determinants is essential for product development and selection. Such products will be more likely to be chosen and used as intended, increasing efficacy, and reducing the overall costs related with these treatments. This knowledge shall be integrated in early stages of product development. This article reviews the state of the art related with women's preferences and acceptance for different dosage forms and drug delivery routes involved in women's health. The methodologies used for collecting these data and their major drawbacks are discussed. Results obtained from acceptability studies and the main determinants for selection of preventive and treatment drug products are discussed as tools for new developments in the field.

History of IUD utilization and the risk of preterm birth: a cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To explore whether a history of IUD use could increase the risk of subsequent preterm birth.

METHODS

We performed a cohort study of 24,496 multipara aged 19-48 years in Dongguan City. Each subject was followed up for 1 year, and 12,508 women obtained pregnancy outcomes. They were divided into 2 groups: 2130 subjects with IUD use history (exposure group), and 10,378 subjects without IUD use history (control group). The exposure group will remove the IUD before pregnancy. The primary outcomes were preterm birth (less than 37 weeks of gestation) and early preterm birth (less than 34 weeks of gestation). We used log-binomial regression to estimate adjusted risk ratios (aRR) of preterm birth and early preterm birth for women with a history of IUD. According to the different adjusted baseline data, three regression models were established, and the propensity matching score method was also used to verify the stability of the results.

RESULTS

The delivery rate of women with IUD history was 51.24%, and that of women without IUD was 51.03% (² = 0.063, P = 0.802). Six hundred and eighty-five women had preterm birth (5.48%, 95% CI 5.08-5.88) and 133 women had early preterm birth (1.06%, 95% CI 0.83-1.24). Compared with the control group, the incidence of preterm birth and early preterm birth in the exposure group were significantly lower. The results are stable in all four models. Subgroup analysis also supported the result. This study also found that the longer the women used IUD before pregnancy, the younger the age of first using IUD, and the shorter the time from condom removal to pregnancy, the lower the incidence of premature birth.

CONCLUSION

The women with a history of IUD use are less likely to have premature birth after the IUD is removed. More prospective studies are needed to confirm it.

Increasing access to intrauterine contraceptive device uptake in Ghana: stakeholders views on task sharing service delivery with community health nurses

Introduction

Evidence supporting successful task sharing to increase Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUD) uptake exist in some developing countries that have challenges with availability of trained health professionals. Although Community Health Nurses (CHNs) in Ghana are trained to provide primary health care including emergency deliveries in rural communities, they are not professionally mandated to provide IUD services.

Objectives

To explore stakeholders' views on task sharing IUD services with CHNs in Ghana.

Methods

This qualitative case study was conducted in Accra, Ghana between June and September 2018. Focus group discussions and in-depth interviews were used to collect data from purposively selected participants. Included in the study were policy makers, policy implementing institutions, service regulators, Non-Governmental Organisations, field providers and service end users. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. We manually performed thematic analysis of data and findings were appropriately described by paraphrasing and/or quoting relevant responses verbatim.

Results

There is a general mixed feeling towards task sharing IUD services with community health nurses in Ghana. Policy makers, programmers, gynaecologists and IUD users interviewed believed that CHNs are capable of providing safe IUD services when well trained, adequately resourced and supervised. Based on some field experiences of complications associated with IUD insertions, participants who were midwives clearly indicated the need for effective training and careful implementation strategies.

Conclusions

Despite concerns about user safety, respondents endorsed task-sharing IUD services with trained CHNs in Ghana. Implementation study focusing on competency-based IUD training for selected CHNs is recommended to provide empirical evidence to back policy decisions.

Funding

Marie Stopes Ghana funded the field work.

[Adolescents and teachers´ knowledge, attitude and practice towards contraception: results from a qualitative study conducted in the Democratic Republic of the Congo]

Introduction

the purpose of this study was to assess adolescents and teachers´ knowledge, attitude and practices towards family planning (FP).

Methods

in 2018, a qualitative study was conducted among seven teachers and 62 teenagers aged 15-19 years based on the Theory of Reasoned Action published by Fishbein and Ajzen in 2011. Data were collected from six focus group (FG) with adolescents and seven semi-structured interviews of teachers. They were analyzed using Atlas Ti software on the basis of a deductive approach.

Results

periodic abstinence, male condoms and pills were the only contraceptive methods reported. Adolescents and teachers were apprehensive about using artificial contraceptive methods other than irregularly used male condom. Girls prefer natural methods fearing side effects. The majority of adolescents wanted to be informed about FP in school; however, they felt that the content of the Life Education Course (EVIE) was insufficient and that teachers lacked of openness. Peers, brothers, sisters and internet were the main sources of information. Mothers were an important source of information especially for girls, unlike fathers who were generally less appreciated.

Conclusion

knowledge about FP is weak. Misconceptions about contraception lead to the use of ineffective practices to prevent unintended pregnancies. Training programs to improve teachers´ knowledge should be developed and the content of the EVIE course should be formalized and regulated.

Effectiveness of an intrauterine device informative intervention among post-natal women in Western Jamaica

Introduction

Intrauterine devices are the most effective long-acting reversible contraceptives, but in many developing countries, such as Jamaica, these devices remain underutilized.

Methods

A cross-sectional informative intervention was conducted among women ≥ 18 years of age attending postnatal clinics in western Jamaica from May to August 2018. Data were collected using an investigator-administered questionnaire/pre-test followed by a 12-slide PowerPoint® presentation and a post-test.

Results

Most of the 299 women who participated were 18–29 years of age, with a mean age of 27.1 (SD ± 6.1) years. Most had their first pregnancy between ages 18 and 24 years, with mean age at first pregnancy of 20.2 (SD ± 4.0) years. Only 3.0% of participants reported current use of an intrauterine device; 3.5% reported using an intrauterine device in the past. For nearly every measure of knowledge of intrauterine devices, there was a significant change in the proportion of participants who got the correct answer from the pre-test to the post-test. The mean summed pre-test knowledge score was 9.54 (SD ± 3.46) and the post-test score was 15.23 (SD ± 1.92); the possible total score is 18. The difference between the mean scores (5.69 points) was also significant.

Conclusion

The intervention resulted in significant change in knowledge of intrauterine devices among the women and cleared up many misconceptions that may have contributed to reluctance of women to use intrauterine devices. Women of reproductive age in Jamaica should be counseled on contraceptive methods including intrauterine devices so that these devices can be considered in their contraceptive choices.

Potential for Improving Intrauterine Device (IUD) Service Delivery Quality: Results from a Secondary Data Analysis

Background: To accelerate progress toward Family Planning 2020 (FP2020) goals, the government of India focused on improving the quality of intrauterine device (IUD) services. EngenderHealth, an international sexual and reproductive health and rights organization, has been supporting the governments of Gujarat and Rajasthan since 2014 through the Expanding Access to IUD Services in India (EAISI) project by building the capacity of service providers, monitoring compliance with standard practices, and strengthening health systems. This study sought to assess whether EAISI-trained providers offer higher quality IUD services than non-EAISI-trained providers, as indicated by a reduction in confirmed IUD complications.

Methods: The study team conducted an analytical cross-sectional study of secondary data collected from follow-up registers at 176 intervention facilities (38 in Gujarat and 138 in Rajasthan) during Phase I of the EAISI project. The analysis included follow-up clients who returned to the same facility between April 2018 and March 2019. We performed a multivariate logistic regression to determine factors associated with IUD complications.

Results: During the period of assessment, 56,733 clients received IUD insertions, and 10,747 (18.9%) clients returned for follow-up services. Of the returning clients, 49.4% (N=5,305) had received IUDs from EAISI-trained providers, while 50.6% (N=5,442) had received IUDs from non-EAISI-trained providers. A total of 4.0% (N=432) of all returning clients experienced complications (expulsion: 1.3%, missing strings: 1.7%, infection: 1.1%). Clients who received IUDs from non-EAISI-trained providers were 55.5% more likely (95% CI [26.2%, 91.5%], p<0.0005) to have experienced complications than clients who received insertions from EAISI-trained providers. The type of IUD, the timing of the insertion, and the timing of the follow-up visit also affected complication prevalence.

Conclusion: Our findings indicate that intensive, practical clinical skills training for IUD insertion can reduce the prevalence of complications.

Misconceptions and Beliefs Regarding the Use of Intrauterine Devices for Nulliparous Women Among Chinese Health Care Providers

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To investigate the knowledge and beliefs regarding the use of intrauterine devices (IUDs) for nulliparous women among Chinese health care providers and assess the potential factors related to their misconceptions and conservative beliefs. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANT, INTERVENTIONS, AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: A self-administered survey was conducted at 2 Chinese national academic conferences in 2015. The questionnaire data obtained from 103 health care providers were analyzed to examine the providers' knowledge regarding the safety and effectiveness of IUDs and the complications associated with IUD use, as well as their beliefs regarding the suitability of IUDs for nulliparous women. An ordinal logistic regression model was used to evaluate the potential factors related to their beliefs.

RESULTS

Misconceptions about the complications associated with IUD use were common among our respondents, and they were least likely to know that IUDs do not increase the risk of developing pelvic inflammatory disease (26/97) or ectopic pregnancy (23/102) (22.5%-26.8%). Only approximately 10% of the providers believed that adolescents (9/94) or unmarried nulliparas (10/95) could be candidates for IUDs. In contrast, they were more likely (37/96, 38.5%) to consider married nulliparous women as appropriate candidates (P < .001). Misconceptions about the complications of IUD use were associated with more conservative beliefs regarding IUD use for nulliparous women (adjusted odds ratio, 1.34; 95% confidence interval, 1.00-1.79).

CONCLUSION

The health care providers' insufficient knowledge regarding IUDs contributed to their outdated and conservative beliefs about the suitability of IUDs for nulliparous women. In addition, the difference in the providers' beliefs regarding IUD use for married and unmarried nulliparous women might reflect the stigma associated with premarital sex in Chinese traditional culture.

Do modern family planning methods impact women's quality of life? Jordanian women's perspective

Background

Although Jordan has made progress in meeting Family Planning (FP) needs in last decades, recently the use of FP methods has declined significantly. Women’s personal experiences, knowledge, and perceptions of how a FP method might impact their quality of life (QoL) can influence FP decisions. However, a lack of comprehensive understanding of the impact of modern FP methods on women’s QoL continues to exist among Jordanian couples. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between the use of common modern FP methods and QoL among Jordanian women.

Methods

Using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire along with other questions, non-pregnant women of reproductive age were interviewed at their homes through face-to-face structured interviews. Women who visited the obstetrics and gynecology clinic of King Abdullah University Hospital for contraceptive advice and follow-up consultations were also included.

Results

A total of 548 women aged between 18 and 49 participated in the study. Based on the WHOQOL-BREF scale, the overall mean (SD) scores of the four domains were found to be average. Our findings show that women who used Intra Uterine Devices (IUDs) and women whose husbands used condoms had better QoL in the four domains (physical health, psychological health, social relationships, and environment) than those who used Oral Contraceptives (OCs). Women who used implant and injectable hormonal contraceptives had better QoL in terms of the physical health and social relationships domains. In contrast, women who had undergone permanent sterilization had lower QoL scores in all of the four domains. Further analysis revealed that women who had undergone tubal sterilization were less satisfied overall and more likely to experience side effects than women who used OCs.

Conclusion

The choice to use contraceptives and decide freely whether and when to have children is regarded as a fundamental reproductive health right and is strongly linked to women’s health and QoL. Women who use OCs and women who have undergone permanent sterilization are likely to have lower QoL than women who use IUDs or implant and injectable hormones and those whose husbands use condoms.

K, O’Connell KA, Cagatay L, Sengupta S, Singal S. Could EAISI-trained providers provide better quality of IUD services? Results of a secondary data analysis of complications as a proxy indicator

Background: For accelerating its progress towards FP2020 goals, the Government of India has focused on improving the quality of intrauterine device (IUD) services. EngenderHealth has supported the Governments of Rajasthan and Gujarat since 2014 through its Expanding Access to IUD Services in India (EAISI) project by building the capacity of service providers, monitoring their compliance with standard practices, and strengthening health systems. This study sought to assess whether EAISI trained providers provide a better quality of IUD services as compared to non-EAISI trained providers, as indicated by a reduction in confirmed IUD complications? Methods: This study was an analytical cross-sectional study of secondary data collected from the follow-up registers of 176 intervention facilities (138 in Rajasthan and 38 in Gujarat) during Phase I of EAISI project. The analysis included clients who returned between April 2018 and March 2019 to the same facility for a follow-up visit. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to determine factors associated with IUD complications. Results: A total of 56,733 IUD insertions were conducted, and 10,747 (18.9%) client follow-ups were documented. Of these, 49.4% (N=5,305) clients received IUDs from EAISI-trained providers, while 50.6% (N=5,442) received IUDs from non-EAISI trained providers. A total of 4.0% (N=432) of clients experienced complications (Expulsion: 1.3%, Missing Strings: 1.7%, Infection: 1.1%). Clients who received IUDs from non-EAISI-trained providers were 55.5% more likely [95% CI (26.2%, 91.5%), p<0.0005] to have complications compared to clients who received insertions from EAISI-trained providers. Other significant factors include the type of IUD, timing of the follow-up visit and timing of the insertion. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that intensive, hands-on training of providers to improve clinical skills for IUD insertions can have a positive impact on the reduction of post-insertion complications.

K, O’Connell KA, Cagatay L, Sengupta S, Singal S. Could trained providers provide better quality of IUD services? Results of a secondary data analysis of complications as a proxy indicator

Background: For accelerating its progress towards FP2020 goals, the Government of India has focused on improving the quality of intrauterine device (IUD) services. EngenderHealth has supported the Governments of Rajasthan and Gujarat since 2014 through its Expanding Access to IUD Services in India (EAISI) project by building the capacity of service providers, monitoring their compliance with standard practices, and strengthening health systems. This study sought to assess whether EAISI trained providers provide a better quality of IUD services as compared to non-EAISI trained providers, as indicated by a reduction in confirmed IUD complications? Methods: This study was an analytical cross-sectional study of secondary data collected from the follow-up registers of 176 intervention facilities (138 in Rajasthan and 38 in Gujarat) during Phase I of EAISI project. The analysis included clients who returned between April 2018 and March 2019 to the same facility for a follow-up visit. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to determine factors associated with IUD complications. Results: A total of 56,733 IUD insertions were conducted, and 10,747 (18.9%) client follow-ups were documented. Of these, 49.4% (N=5,305) clients received IUDs from EAISI-trained providers, while 50.6% (N=5,442) received IUDs from non-EAISI trained providers. A total of 4.0% (N=432) of clients experienced complications (Expulsion: 1.3%, Missing Strings: 1.7%, Infection: 1.1%). Clients who received IUDs from non-EAISI-trained providers were 55.5% more likely [95% CI (26.2%, 91.5%), p<0.0005] to have complications compared to clients who received insertions from EAISI-trained providers. Other significant factors include the type of IUD, timing of the follow-up visit and timing of the insertion. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that intensive, hands-on training of providers to improve clinical skills for IUD insertions can have a positive impact on the reduction of post-insertion complications.

Post-abortion long-acting reversible contraception in a sample of Italian women: intrauterine device versus subdermal implant

Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) represent an especially effective kind of post-abortion contraception. We aimed at assessing satisfaction, discontinuation, efficacy, and tolerability associated with either levonorgestrel intrauterine device (L-IUCD), the copper intrauterine device (C-IUCD) and implant (IMP) after termination of pregnancy (TOP). We recorded baseline data about the patients and performed phone surveys at 3, 6 and 12 months after insertion to assess the bleeding profile. Furthermore, women were inquired about possible adverse events, satisfaction, and discontinuation at 12 months after insertion. LARC continuers (>12 months after TOP) were divided into three groups: L-IUCD (n = 47), C-IUCD (n = 6) and IMP (n = 36). Satisfaction rates among L-IUCD users were higher than among IMP users (100% vs. 72.2%, p < .05). A higher, yet not significant, share of patients decided to withdraw contraception in IMP group (3.6% in IUCD group and 12.2% in IMP group). The bleeding profile was significantly more favorable among L-IUCD users than among IMP users. Finally, the reported rate of treatment-associated adverse events did not differ significantly among the groups. L-IUCD insertion after TOP is associated with higher satisfaction and lower discontinuation rates than IMP. Such pattern could be attributed to a more favorable bleeding profile.

Safety of levonorgestrel 52 mg intrauterine system compared to copper intrauterine device: a population-based cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the risk of all-cause death, hospitalizations (any cause), ectopic pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory disease or infection, uterine perforation, device removal, neuro-psychiatric drugs initiation, or new psychiatric visit(s) between levonorgestrel (LNG) 52 mg intrauterine system (IUS) and copper intrauterine device (IUD) users in France.

STUDY DESIGN

We identified a historical cohort of women aged 20-55 years with a first dispensing of either LNG 52 mg IUS or copper-IUD between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2014, in the French National Claims database, SNDS. We used propensity score matching to balance the two groups on baseline sociodemographic and clinical characteristics to minimize confounding. We estimated Cox proportional hazards models to compare health outcomes between LNG 52 mg IUS and copper-IUDs users.

RESULTS

We matched 9318 LNG 52 mg IUS users (mean age 36.2±6.8 years) to 10,185 copper-IUD users (mean age 35.4±7.1 years). After matching and age-adjustment, LNG 52 mg IUS users had a slightly higher risk of anxiolytic drugs initiation (HR 1.08, 95%CI 1.01-1.15) and device removal (HR 1.05, 95%CI 1.01-1.10) compared to copper-IUD users, with no differences for other studied outcomes.

CONCLUSION

French IUS users report slightly more anxiolytic treatment initiation and IUD removal compared to copper-IUD users. These results are consistent with a potential pharmacovigilance signal of anxiety-related disorders in LNG 52 mg IUS users.

IMPLICATIONS STATEMENT

In French LNG 52 mg IUS users, there was slightly more anxiolytic treatment initiation and IUD removal compared to copper-IUD users. No risk difference was found for all-cause death, hospitalizations, ectopic pregnancy, pelvic disorders, and uterine perforation. We cannot exclude that the associations are related to differences in characteristics of women who chose each type of type of IUD.

Attitudes and practices related to intrauterine devices for nulliparous women among Chinese health care providers

BACKGROUND

Unintended pregnancy and induced abortion among young (unmarried or nulliparous) women have become serious social and health issues in China, which are thought to partly result from low use of long-acting reversible contraception, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs). Considering that providers may play an especially important role in increasing use of this particular method, we investigated Chinese health care providers' attitudes and practices regarding IUDs use for nulliparous women, and further examine the potential factors and reasons contributing to their attitudes and practices.

METHODS

We recruited health care providers at two Chinese national academic conferences and surveyed them about knowledge of IUDs, willingness to recommend IUDs to nulliparous women, and their related practices. Modified Poisson regression was used to examine the potential factors related to their attitudes and practices.

RESULTS

Approximately a half of respondents reported unwillingness to recommend IUDs to nulliparous women. Providers with more misperceptions about the safety and contraindications were more likely to be unwilling to recommend IUDs to nulliparous women. Moreover, 71.0% of respondents rarely or never recommended or provided IUDs to nulliparous women. Providers' unwillingness to recommend IUDs to nulliparous women was associated with their infrequent practices (aPR=1.43; 95% CI: 1.04, 1.96). In addition to concerns about the side effects or complications, traditional sexual concept against premarital sex was often cited as a reason by Chinese health providers for their negative attitudes towards IUDs use for nulliparous women, a large proportion of whom are unmarried.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that negative attitudes and infrequent practices regarding IUDs use for nulliparous women are common in Chinese health care providers. Moreover, misperceptions about IUDs, as well as traditional sexual concept, contribute to Chinese health care providers' negative attitudes towards IUDs use for nulliparous women, and may further reduce their provision. Educational interventions are needed to improve providers' accurate knowledge of IUDs and fill the gap between traditional sexual concept and young women's needs of contraceptive services.

Use and discontinuation of intrauterine contraceptive device in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana

Background

The intrauterine contraceptive device is one of the modern long-acting and reversible contraception that is very safe and effective. Yet, less than 2 % of women are using intrauterine devices in Ghana. This study therefore explored the experiences and barriers to intrauterine contraceptive device use and discontinuation in Greater Accra Region, Ghana.

Methods

Intrauterine contraceptive device users and providers were purposively selected from eight private family planning clinics in the Greater Accra Region. Semi-structured interview guides were used for in-depth interviews during data collection. The interviews were audio-taped to ascertain accurate accounts of the interviews and recordings replayed for analytical responses. Field assistants transcribed the interviews conducted themselves and read through the transcripts produced twice to increase familiarity with the dataset. A list of code labels was created and a series of categories for the main themes that emerged from the transcripts were developed. The transcribed data was organized, coded and manually thematically analysed in word. Study results were presented in tables and quotes from respondents.

Results

Results showed that key motivations for intrauterine contraceptive device use include effectiveness, benefits, and efficacy of the device, fertility regulation, peace of mind, contraceptive method switching, health provider effects, desire for long-acting contraceptive method, and partner characteristics. Intrauterine contraceptive device discontinuation was due to bleeding irregularities, vaginal infections, desire to increase fertility, physical features of the intrauterine device, and partner disapproval of use. Other reasons in both cases pertained to non-hormonal aspects of the intrauterine device, partner characteristics, and provider encouragement and influence.

Conclusions

Several factors influence the use and discontinuation of intrauterine device in Ghana. Comprehensive contraceptive counselling on the intrauterine device is essential in promoting uptake and knowledge of the intrauterine device at the health facility level. Various targeted messages are also needed to dispel misconceptions at the community level.

Contraception for midlife women: lack of information? Lack of interest? Lack of investment?

Despite the growing population of midlife women in the USA and in other economically-advantaged countries, there is scant research focusing on this population, especially regarding contraceptive choices in those at risk for unwanted or unplanned pregnancy. As women approach menopause, the increasing irregularity of their menstrual cycles and changing endocrine patterns present challenges for preventing unintended pregnancy, or, on the flip side, planning for a desired pregnancy.

In this thematic series, we have brought together researchers and clinicians who address many of these tough clinical scenarios and offer suggestions not only for clinical management of optimal contraceptive choices for midlife women, but also suggestions for future research in this area.

Role of the community pharmacist in emergency contraception counseling and delivery in the United States: current trends and future prospects

Women and couples continue to experience unintended pregnancies at high rates. In the US, 45% of all pregnancies are either mistimed or unwanted. Mishaps with contraceptives, such as condom breakage, missed pills, incorrect timing of patch or vaginal ring application, contraceptive nonuse, forced intercourse, and other circumstances, place women at risk of unintended pregnancy. There is a critical role for emergency contraception (EC) in preventing those pregnancies. There are currently three methods of EC available in the US. Levonorgestrel EC pills have been available with a prescription for over 15 years and over-the-counter since 2013. In 2010, ulipristal acetate EC pills became available with a prescription. Finally, the copper intrauterine device remains the most effective form of EC. Use of EC is increasing over time, due to wider availability and accessibility of EC methods. One strategy to expand access for both prescription and nonprescription EC products is to include pharmacies as a point of access and allow pharmacist prescribing. In eight states, pharmacists are able to prescribe and provide EC directly to women: levonorgestrel EC in eight states and ulipristal acetate in seven states. In addition to access with a prescription written by a pharmacist or other health care provider, levonorgestrel EC is available over-the-counter in pharmacies and grocery stores. Pharmacists play a critical role in access to EC in community pharmacies by ensuring product availability in the inventory, up-to-date knowledge, and comprehensive patient counseling. Looking to the future, there are opportunities to expand access to EC in pharmacies further by implementing legislation expanding the pharmacist scope of practice, ensuring third-party reimbursement for clinical services delivered by pharmacists, and including EC in pharmacy education and training.

A prospective assessment of pelvic infection risk following same-day sexually transmitted infection testing and levonorgestrel intrauterine system placement

BACKGROUND

Misperceptions persist that intrauterine device placement is related to pelvic infections and Chlamydia and gonorrhea testing results are needed prior to placement.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to evaluate the relationship of Chlamydia and gonorrhea screening to pelvic infection for up to 2 years following placement of the levonorgestrel 52-mg intrauterine system.

STUDY DESIGN

A total of 1751 nulliparous and multiparous females 16 to 45 years old enrolled in a multicenter trial designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new levonorgestrel intrauterine system for up to 7 years. Participants had Chlamydia screening at study entry and yearly if they were age ≤25 years. Women also had baseline gonorrhea screening if testing had not been performed since starting their current sexual relationship. Those who changed sexual partners during the trial had repeated Chlamydia and gonorrhea testing. Intrauterine system insertion could occur on the same day as screening. Participants did not receive prophylactic antibiotics for intrauterine system placement. Investigators performed pelvic examinations after 12 and 24 months and when clinically indicated during visits at 3, 6, and 18 months after placement and unscheduled visits. Pelvic infection included any clinical diagnosis of pelvic inflammatory disease or endometritis.

RESULTS

Most participants (n = 1364, 79.6%) did not have sexually transmitted infection test results available prior to intrauterine system placement. In all, 29 (1.7%) participants had positive baseline testing for a sexually transmitted infection (Chlamydia, n = 25; gonorrhea, n = 3; both, n = 1); 6 of these participants had known results (all with Chlamydia infection) prior to intrauterine system placement and received treatment before enrollment. The 23 participants whose results were not known at the time of intrauterine system placement received treatment without intrauterine system removal and none developed pelvic infection. The incidence of positive Chlamydia testing was similar among those with and without known test results at the time of intrauterine system placement (1.9% vs 1.5%, respectively, P = .6). Nine (0.5%) participants had a diagnosis of pelvic infection over 2 years after placement, all of whom had negative Chlamydia screening on the day of or within 1 month after intrauterine system placement. Infections were diagnosed in 3 participants within 7 days, 1 at 39 days, and 5 at ≥6 months. Seven participants received outpatient antibiotic treatment and 2 (diagnoses between 6-12 months after placement) received inpatient treatment. Two (0.1%) participants had intrauterine system removal related to infection (at 6 days and at 7 months after placement), both of whom only required outpatient treatment.

CONCLUSION

Conducting Chlamydia and gonorrhea testing on the same day as intrauterine system placement is associated with a low risk of pelvic infection (0.2%). Over the first 2 years of intrauterine system use, infections are infrequent and not temporally related to intrauterine system placement. Pelvic infection can be successfully treated in most women with outpatient antibiotics and typically does not require intrauterine system removal. Women without clinical evidence of active infection can have intrauterine system placement and sexually transmitted infection screening, if indicated, on the same day.

Hormonal Contraception Use is Common Among Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases and an Elevated Risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis

BACKGROUND

Persons with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have an increased risk of venous thromboembolism. We sought to examine whether the self-report of hormonal contraception (HC), as a proxy for exposure to estrogen-based contraception, was less common for women with multiple risk factors for venous thromboembolism.

METHODS

We examined the prevalence of personal use of hormonal birth control in a large internet-based cohort of patients with IBD. To determine whether HC was less common among patients with IBD with increased risk of thrombosis, we estimated unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios (PRs) for the use of HC.

RESULTS

Thousand four hundred ninety-nine female survey respondents answered optional fertility questions and were included in the analysis. The prevalence of HC was 33.7% (95% CI, 30.6%-36.9%) among women with Crohn's disease and was 32.6% (95% CI, 28.6%-36.8%) for women with ulcerative colitis. Women with one risk factor for thrombosis were not significantly less likely to receive HC (PR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.76-1.08; adjusted PR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.80-1.11) compared with women without risk factors nor were women with 2 or more risk factors (PR = 1.10, 95% CI 0.56-1.28; adjusted PR = 1.10, 95% CI: 0.83-1.45). The use of an intrauterine device was also similar between women with and without risk factors for venous thromboembolism.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of HC use in women with multiple risk factors was similar to that in women without risk factors, which represents an opportunity for prevention. Gastroenterologists should ask patients with IBD using HC about risk factors for thromboembolic disease to identify patients who may benefit from alternative contraception.

A Lower-Cost Option for Intrauterine Contraception

In March 2015, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Liletta (Actavis, Dublin, Ireland), a new intrauterine device for contraception. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend use of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) as first-line pregnancy prevention. LARC efficacy rates are similar to those of sterilization, with the possibility for quick return of fertility upon removal of the device. Despite benefits and recommendations for this form of contraception, access and high cost remain barriers to use. Liletta is the first lower-cost option for intrauterine contraception. Available to qualified clinics and health centers at a reduced rate, this device may increase availability and decrease the overall cost to women who desire intrauterine contraception.

One year quality of life measured with SEC-QoL in levonorgestrel 52 mg IUS users

OBJECTIVES

The present study aims to prospectively evaluate quality of life (QoL) of women using 52-mg levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) for contraception determined through the Sociedad Española de Contracepción (Spanish contraception Society) (SEC)-QoL, a questionnaire specifically designed to assess the impact of contraceptive methods on QoL of fertile women.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a prospective observational multicenter study of 201 reproductive age women who initiated the LNG-IUS for contraception. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected at baseline and 12 months afterwards. Participants filled in the SEC-QoL questionnaire at both visits. SEQ-QoL scores range from 0 (worst QoL) to 100 (best QoL).

RESULTS

Participants claimed an increased QoL 12 months after insertion in all five dimensions of SEC-QoL due to its high contraceptive efficacy and its capability to reduce other menstrual symptoms (e.g., heavy menstrual bleeding or dysmenorrhoea), overall exerting a positive impact on user's satisfaction. SEC-QoL general overall score went from a mean (S.D.) score of 46.3 (17.3) at baseline to 72.2 (14.8) 12 months afterwards (p<.001). Overall, 94.6% of women claimed having found additional benefits other than contraception. No pregnancies were reported during the 12 months of study duration, and only 14 women discontinued use of LNG-IUS (only two of them due to an adverse event), representing a continuation rate of 93%.

CONCLUSIONS

Women using LNG-IUS for contraception have an increased QoL after 12 months of use, demonstrated by the increased score in all dimensions of the SEC-QoL questionnaire.

IMPLICATIONS

The present study prospectively evaluated QoL of women using LNG-IUS for contraception through the SEC-QoL questionnaire. Participants claimed increased QoL 12 months afterwards, implying that women using LNG-IUS for contraception in usual clinical practise also benefit from the reduction of period-related symptoms, overall leading to very low discontinuation rates.