Abstract
INTRODUCTION:Although the intrauterine device (IUD) is a safe and highly effective method of contraception, patients have concerns about complications. Our objective is to characterize patient apprehensions with IUD insertion and determine if string checks or closer follow-up will help to alleviate these concerns.
METHODS:Individuals 18 and older presenting for IUD insertion participated in an online survey about reproductive history, reasons for choosing an IUD and concerns for complications.
RESULTS:603 surveys were completed. The mean age was 28.6 (SD 6.6). The majority (432, 72%) was Caucasian and graduated from college (507, 84%). All participants had insurance (603, 100%). The most common reasons for choosing an IUD were because it was long-acting (501, 84%) and low maintenance (525, 88%). Participants were most concerned about an embedded IUD (285, 53%), uterine perforation (271, 51%), and expulsion (235, 44%) as potential complications. Although only 334 (57%) were counseled about string checks, 436 (74%) plan on performing monthly string checks to determine if their IUD is in place. 424 (72%) desired to return to the office in 4-6 weeks for an IUD check.
CONCLUSION:Potential complications such as uterine perforation and embedded IUD are primary concerns for those choosing an IUD. Most participants prefer to perform monthly string checks and an office visit for an IUD check. Based on this data, providers should strongly consider counseling patients about string checks and offering an appointment for an IUD check 4-6 weeks after placement for patient reassurance.
