Association between COVID-19 and vaccination on menstrual cycle.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate changes in the menstrual pattern of women of reproductive age infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) or vaccinated against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). METHODS: A cross-sectional study at the University of Campinas, Brazil using Google questionnaire applied from December 2021 through February 2022, disseminated through snowball technique. Participants responded about characteristics of their menstrual cycle before the pandemic and before COVID-19 vaccination, and then about characteristics of their cycle 3 months after infection with SARS-CoV-2 and 3 months after vaccination. Our primary outcome was a binary indicator of changes in the menstrual cycle. We used multivariate regression analysis to identify factors associated with menstrual changes. RESULTS: We received 1012 completed questionnaires and 735 (72.7%) were from women aged between 20 and 39 years, 745 (73.6%) were White and 491 (48.6%) lived with a partner. A total of 419 (41.6%) of the women reported SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, only two of them were hospitalized, and 995 (98.8%) of women had at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. About menstrual characteristics, 170 (41.3%) reported changes after having COVID-19 and 294 (29.9%) after COVID-19 vaccination, respectively. Few years of schooling, lower income, and non-white ethnicity were related to higher reports of menstrual changes after COVID-19. Menstrual changes after COVID-19 vaccination were associated with not using contraception. Higher body mass index was associated with irregularities in cyclicity and bleeding days, after COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccination, respectively. CONCLUSION: Our results corroborated the stability of the menstrual cycle after having COVID-19 or COVID-19 vaccination; however, there is a potential relationship between menstrual changes and socioeconomic factors as well as contraceptive use.

Assessment of pain and ease of intrauterine device placement according to type of device, parity, and mode of delivery.

OBJECTIVE: We compared pain and the ease of insertion of two different types of intrauterine devices (IUDs; the levonorgestrel intrauterine systems 52 mg (LNG-IUS 52 mg) and the copper-bearing IUD [TCu380A]) among nulligravidas and parous women with and without caesarean delivery. METHODS: A cross-sectional study assessed pain referred by women and ease of insertion of the two IUDs models. We applied a visual analogue scale (VAS) to assess pain, while the ease of insertion was defined by healthcare professionals. RESULTS: We assessed 1076 women, including 334 nulligravidas and 566 parous women who had had at least one caesarean delivery and 176 women with history of only vaginal delivery. Regarding pain at IUD placement, 26 (2.5%) women reported no pain, 167 (16.4%) light pain, 319 (31.3%) moderate and 506 (49.7%) intense pain. The highest scores for pain were reported by nulligravidas (67.2%, p = 0.001), while the mean pain score was higher in the LNG-IUS 52 mg group. Difficulties reported by healthcare providers were more frequent in the nulligravidas (21.2%) and women with previous caesarean delivery (16.9%). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggested differences between the two IUDs tested, with higher pain associated with the LNG-IUS 52 mg, and highlights the need for pain management, mainly among nulligravida and women with history of caesarean delivery.SHORT CONDENSATIONIntense pain at insertion was more related to nulligravida than parous women and more pain with placement of LNG-IUS 52 mg IUDs than TCu380A IUDs. Nevertheless, our results confirmed that ease of IUD placement was between 80% to 90% of all insertions, being more common in parous women without previous caesarean delivery.

Cesarean scar defects and abnormal uterine bleeding: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To synthesize the published literature to better understand the association between cesarean scar defects (CSDs) and abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). In particular, we aimed to evaluate the risk and pattern(s) of CSD-associated AUB in addition to exploring the relationship between defect morphology with bleeding symptoms. DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. SETTING: Not applicable. PATIENTS: Patients with CSD and reports of uterine bleeding as an outcome were identified in 60 studies from database searches. INTERVENTIONS: Studies that investigated CSD (as defined by investigators) and reported uterine bleeding, menstrual bleeding, or AUB as an outcome were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The prevalence and risk of AUB (intermenstrual, postmenstrual, and unscheduled bleeding) in patients with confirmed CSD. RESULTS: Nine studies reported on the prevalence of AUB in patients with a confirmed CSD. Patients with CSD were more likely to experience AUB, compared with those without CSD (relative risk, 3.47; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.02-5.97; 6 studies, 1,385 patients; I2 = 67%). In a population of patients with at least 1 cesarean delivery, the prevalence of AUB in those with CSD was 25.5% (95% CI, 14.7-40.5; 6 studies, 667 patients, I2 = 93%). However, symptom prevalence was much higher in patients presenting for imaging for a gynecologic indication where the prevalence of AUB in the presence of a CSD was 76.4% (95% CI, 67.8-83.3; 5 studies, 505 patients; I2 = 71%). The mean menstrual duration in symptomatic patients with CSD was 13.4 days (95% CI, 12.6-14.2; 19 studies, 2,095 patients; I2 = 96%), and the mean duration of early-cycle intermenstrual bleeding was 6.8 days (95% CI, 5.7-7.8 days; 9 studies, 759 patients; I2 = 93%). The most common descriptor of CSD-associated AUB was "brown discharge". Patients with larger CSD experienced more bleeding symptoms. CONCLUSION: There is a strong and consistent association between patients with CSD and AUB. These patients experience a unique bleeding pattern, namely prolonged menstruation and early-cycle intermenstrual bleeding. These data should provide impetus for including CSD as a distinct entity in AUB classification systems. High heterogeneity in our results calls for standardization of nomenclature and outcome reporting for this condition.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Related to the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic among Women Seeking Contraceptive Methods.

OBJECTIVE: To determine knowledge, attitude, and preventive (KAP) practices towards the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic among women in reproductive age seeking to use copper or hormonal intrauterine devices (IUD/LNG-IUS). METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study in which we applied a questionnaire on 400 women about KAP practices on COVID-19 at the University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil, from May to August 2020. RESULTS: The mean (±SD) age of the women was 30.8 ± 7.9 years, and 72.8% of them reported being pregnant at least once. Most women (95%) had heard or read about COVID-19, and their main sources of information were television (91%) and government websites (53%). However, 53% of the women had doubts about the veracity of the information accessed. CONCLUSION: Women without a partner and with > 12 years of schooling had more information about COVID-19 and on its impact on new pregnancy, and those from high socioeconomic status had a higher chance of maintaining physical distance. Safety, effectiveness, comfort, and absence of hormone in the contraceptive method (in the case of TCu380A IUD) were the main reasons for the participants to seek the service during the pandemic, and the possibility to stop menstrual bleeding was the main reason to choose the LNG-IUS.

OBJETIVO: Determinar o conhecimento, atitude e práticas preventivas (CAP) em relação à pandemia de SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) entre mulheres em idade reprodutiva que buscam usar dispositivo intrauterino com cobre (DIU TCu 380) ou sistema intrauterino liberador de levonorgestrel (SIU-LNG). MéTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo transversal e um questionário foi aplicado a 400 mulheres para conhecer o CAP sobre o COVID-19 na Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brasil, no período de maio a agosto de 2020. RESULTADOS: A média (±DP) de idade das mulheres foi de 30,8 ± 7,9 anos, e 72,8% delas relataram ter engravidado pelo menos uma vez. A maioria das mulheres (95%) tinha ouvido ou lido sobre a a Covid-19, e suas principais fontes de informação foram a televisão (91%) e sites do governo (53%). Porém, 53% das mulheres tinham dúvidas a respeito da veracidade das informações acessadas. CONCLUSãO: Mulheres sem companheiro e com mais de 12 anos de escolaridade tiveram mais informações sobre a COVID-19 e sobre o seu impacto em uma nova gravidez, e aquelas de nível socioeconômico alto tiveram maior chance de manter distância física. Segurança, eficácia, conforto e ausência de hormônio no método anticoncepcional (no caso do DIU TCu380A) foram os principais motivos para as participantes procurarem o serviço durante a pandemia, e a possibilidade de controlar o sangramento menstrual abundante foi o principal motivo para a escolha do SIU-LNG.

Natural contraception apps knowledge among Brazilian women and Obstetrics and Gynaecology residents.

BACKGROUND: Our objectives were to determine the knowledge and interest in apps for natural contraception among women and Obstetrics and Gynaecology (OBGYN) residents. STUDY DESIGN: An online survey was sent to Brazilian women to gather sociodemographic data, knowledge and interest towards fertility-awareness contraceptive methods and smartphone apps for this purpose. Also, we sent an online survey to OBGYN residents to evaluate the reproductive physiology knowledge of natural contraception and interest in improving it and knowledge and smartphone apps for this purpose. RESULTS: A total of 730 women answered the survey, and 638 were included in the study and 94 OBGYN residents answered the survey. Among the respondent women 386 (60.5%) were interested in more information about natural contraception, 226 (35.5%) showed interest in use natural contraception, 85 (13.3%) indicated that they were users of natural contraception, 15 (16.8%) of this group currently uses an app for this purpose and 485 (76%) considers a practical option to have an app for natural contraception. Regarding the respondent residents all answers were included in the study; 62 (65.9%) knew the right definition of 'Natural Contraception', 52 (55.3%) showed interest in information about this topic and 78 (82.9%) considers a practical option to have an app for natural contraception. CONCLUSIONS: Less than 15% of the respondent women use natural contraception although about 60% expressed some interest in learning more, and that among OBGYN residents, half showed interest.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Related to the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic among Women Seeking Contraceptive Methods / Conhecimento, atitude e práticas relacionadas à pandemia de SARS-CoV-2 entre mulheres que buscam métodos anticoncepcionais

Abstract Objective To determine knowledge, attitude, and preventive (KAP) practices towards the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic among women in reproductive age seeking to use copper or hormonal intrauterine devices (IUD/LNG-IUS). Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study in which we applied a questionnaire on 400 women about KAP practices on COVID-19 at the University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil, from May to August 2020. Results The mean (±SD) age of the women was 30.8±7.9 years, and 72.8% of them reported being pregnant at least once. Most women (95%) had heard or read about COVID-19, and their main sources of information were television (91%) and government websites (53%). However, 53% of the women had doubts about the veracity of the information accessed. Conclusion Women without a partner and with>12 years of schooling had more information about COVID-19 and on its impact on new pregnancy, and those from high socioeconomic status had a higher chance of maintaining physical distance. Safety, effectiveness, comfort, and absence of hormone in the contraceptive method (in the case of TCu380A IUD) were the main reasons for the participants to seek the service during the pandemic, and the possibility to stop menstrual bleeding was the main reason to choose the LNG-IUS.

Resumo Objetivo Determinar o conhecimento, atitude e práticas preventivas (CAP) em relação à pandemia de SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) entre mulheres em idade reprodutiva que buscam usar dispositivo intrauterino com cobre (DIU TCu 380) ou sistema intrauterino liberador de levonorgestrel (SIU-LNG). Métodos Foi realizado um estudo transversal e um questionário foi aplicado a 400 mulheres para conhecer o CAP sobre o COVID-19 na Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brasil, no período de maio a agosto de 2020. Resultados A média (±DP) de idade das mulheres foi de 30,8±7,9 anos, e 72,8% delas relataram ter engravidado pelo menos uma vez. A maioria das mulheres (95%) tinha ouvido ou lido sobre a a Covid-19, e suas principais fontes de informação foram a televisão (91%) e sites do governo (53%). Porém, 53% das mulheres tinham dúvidas a respeito da veracidade das informações acessadas. Conclusão Mulheres sem companheiro e com mais de 12 anos de escolaridade tiveram mais informações sobre a COVID-19 e sobre o seu impacto em uma nova gravidez, e aquelas de nível socioeconômico alto tiveram maior chance de manter distância física. Segurança, eficácia, conforto e ausência de hormônio no método anticoncepcional (no caso do DIU TCu380A) foram os principais motivos para as participantes procurarem o serviço durante a pandemia, e a possibilidade de controlar o sangramento menstrual abundante foi o principal motivo para a escolha do SIU-LNG.

Expulsion rates of the levonorgestrel 52 mg intrauterine system are similar among women with heavy menstrual bleeding and users for contraception.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the expulsion rates of the levonorgestrel (LNG) 52 mg intrauterine system (IUS) among women with heavy menstrual bleeding versus women using solely for contraception. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted an audit study of 548 (8.8%) women with heavy menstrual bleeding and 5655 (91.2%) users for contraception (comparison group) for 4 years in Campinas, Brazil. We retrieved sociodemographic data, expulsion rates, and variables associated to device placement. Among women with heavy menstrual bleeding, we placed the devices after the cessation of bleeding or after the reduction of menstrual flow. RESULTS: Thirty-one of 548 (5.6%) women with heavy menstrual bleeding and 315 of 5655 (5.6%) from the comparison group expelled the device. This constituted 7.8 expulsions/100 women-years in women with heavy menstrual bleeding and 10.3 expulsions/100 women-years from the comparison group (p = 0.94). Expulsion risk was associated with previous cesarean delivery in both groups (OR 1.93, 95% CI 1.36;2.74). CONCLUSIONS: Expulsion rates of the LNG IUS among women with heavy menstrual bleeding whose IUS was placed after the cessation or reduction of bleeding were similar to expulsion rates among users for contraception. Previous cesarean delivery was a risk factor for expulsion. IMPLICATIONS: We recommend the 52 mg LNG IUS placement after the cessation of bleeding or a reduction of menstrual flow among women with heavy menstrual bleeding because this strategy was associated with similar risk of expulsion when compared to users for contraception.

Practical training of health care providers in insertion of contraceptive implants: findings from two Brazilian centres.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Lack of information and myths or inadequate training of health care providers in the guidance and management of contraceptives could negatively affect choice and eventually continuation rates. Our objectives were to evaluate the impact of clinical and theoretical training of health care professionals on insertion and removal of etonogestrel (ENG)-implant regarding this contraceptive, including pre- and post-training knowledge about insertion and removal techniques, clinical characteristics, side effects and outcomes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study in which a questionnaire was sent to health care providers after they received clinical training in the management of ENG-implant. RESULTS: After training, 78.2% of the 139 participants initiated to offer and inserted up to 5 implants/month and 17.6% between 6 to 10/month. None of the interviewees reported having difficulty with insertions after training, and 87.9% reported feeling very confident for removal. CONCLUSION: Theoretical and practical training appeared important to prepare health care professionals, clarify doubts and promote higher rates of use of contraceptive implants in Brazil, contributing to reduce the rates of unintended pregnancies.

Safety and bleeding patterns of the levonorgestrel 52-mg intrauterine system among women with thrombosis or coagulopathy.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the safety of the levonorgestrel 52-mg intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) in women with a history of thrombosis or coagulopathy and to evaluate bleeding patterns. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted of 117 women attending a clinic between 2007 and 2019. Their sociodemographic characteristics, hematologic status, reasons for using LNG-IUS, duration of use, use of oral anticoagulants, complications, and bleeding patterns were analyzed. RESULTS: Ninety-nine women had a history of thrombosis (71.7% in use of oral anticoagulants) and 18 had coagulopathies. No bleeding or any other complications occurred during placement of the LNG-IUS. Around two-thirds of the women reported amenorrhea or oligomenorrhea at 12, 24, and 54 months of follow-up, with no difference between the groups using the IUS for contraception or to treat heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) (P=0.07), those with a history of thrombosis or coagulopathy (P=0.53), and users or non-users of oral anticoagulants (P=0.59). CONCLUSION: The LNG-IUS is safe for women with hematologic disorders. It was associated with amenorrhea or oligomenorrhea in a large proportion of users up to 54 months of follow-up regardless of use of oral anticoagulants, reason for use of LNG-IUS (contraception or HMB), or history of coagulopathy or thrombosis.

Predictors of severe pain during insertion of the levonorgestrel 52 mg intrauterine system among nulligravid women.

OBJECTIVE: To identify sociodemographic and clinical variables associated with severe pain with levonorgestrel 52 mg intrauterine system (IUS) placement among nulligravid women. STUDY DESIGN: We performed a secondary analysis of a randomized trial that evaluated intracervical anesthesia before IUS insertion. We assessed factors associated with severe pain (visual analog scale pain score ≥7) immediately after insertion using bivariate and multiple regression analyses. RESULTS: Overall, 137/300 (45.7%) subjects reported severe pain. In multiple regression analysis, only intracervical anesthesia [RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.37-0.80] and a history of dysmenorrhea [RR 1.36, 95% CI 1.08-1.72)] were associated with severe pain. CONCLUSIONS: Among nulligravid women, a history of dysmenorrhea increases, and intracervical block decreases severe pain during levonorgestrel IUS insertion. IMPLICATIONS: Dysmenorrhea increases the risk of severe pain at levonorgestrel intrauterine system insertion, while receiving an intracervical lidocaine block decreases this risk. This information can be useful for counseling women prior to device placement and for selecting candidates who may particularly benefit from interventions to reduce pain.

Different Perceptions among Women and Their Physicians Regarding Contraceptive Counseling: Results from the TANCO Survey in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: The optimal use of contraceptive methods requires that women participate in targeted choice of methods that meet their individual needs and expectations. The Thinking About Needs in Contraception (TANCO) study is a quantitative online survey of the views of health professionals and women on aspects of contraceptive counseling and contraceptive use. METHODS: Physicians and women attending clinics for contraception were invited to complete online questionnaires. The research explored the knowledge and use of contraceptive methods, satisfaction with the current method and interest in receiving more information on all methods. Aspects related to contraceptive practice among physicians were gathered in parallel. The results obtained in the Brazilian research were compared with those of the European research, which involved 11 countries. RESULTS: There was a high prevalence of contraceptive use and general satisfaction with the current method. A total of 63% of the women were using short-acting contraceptive (SAC) methods, and 9% were using a long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC). Sixty-six percent of women were interested in receiving more information on all methods; 69% of women said they would consider LARC if they received more comprehensive information about it. Health professionals tend to underestimate the interest of women in receiving information about contraception in general, and more specifically about LARCs. CONCLUSION: Despite the high levels of use and satisfaction with the current methods, women were interested in receiving more information on all contraceptive methods. Structured contraceptive counseling based on individual needs and expectations may lead to greater knowledge and a greater likelihood of proper contraceptive choice.

OBJETIVO: A utilização ideal de métodos contraceptivos requer que as mulheres participem da escolha orientada sobre métodos que atendam às suas necessidades e expectativas individuais. O estudo Thinking About Needs in Contraception (TANCO)­Pensando nas Necessidades em Contracepção­é uma pesquisa quantitativa online de opiniões de profissionais de saúde e de mulheres sobre aspectos do aconselhamento contraceptivo e uso de anticoncepcionais. MéTODOS: Médicos e mulheres que frequentam consultórios de atendimento visando contracepção foram convidados a preencher questionários online. A pesquisa explorou o conhecimento e o uso de métodos contraceptivos, a satisfação com o método atual, e o interesse em receber mais informações sobre todos os métodos. Aspectos relacionados à prática contraceptiva entre médicos foram reunidos em paralelo. Os resultados obtidos na pesquisa brasileira foram comparados aos da pesquisa europeia, que envolveu 11 países. RESULTADOS: Houve alta prevalência do uso de contraceptivos e satisfação geral com o método atual. Sessenta e três por cento das mulheres estavam usando métodos de curta duração (SAC, na sigla em inglês), e 9% estavam usando um método de longa ação (LARC, na sigla em inglês). Sessenta e seis por cento das mulheres estavam interessadas em receber mais informações sobre todos os métodos; 69% das mulheres disseram que considerariam um LARC se recebessem informações mais abrangentes sobre esse método. Os profissionais de saúde tendem a subestimar o interesse das mulheres em receber informações sobre a contracepção em geral e, mais especificamente, sobre os LARC. CONCLUSãO: Apesar dos altos níveis de uso e satisfação com os métodos atuais, as mulheres estavam interessadas em receber mais informações sobre todos os métodos contraceptivos. O aconselhamento contraceptivo estruturado, baseado nas necessidades e expectativas individuais pode levar ao maior conhecimento e à maior probabilidade de escolha contraceptiva adequada.

Different perceptions among women and their physicians regarding contraceptive counseling: results from the TANCO survey in Brazil / Diferentes percepções entre mulheres e seus médicos sobre o aconselhamento contraceptivo: Resultados da pesquisa TANCO no Brasil

Abstract Objective The optimal use of contraceptive methods requires that women participate in targeted choice of methods that meet their individual needs and expectations. The Thinking About Needs in Contraception (TANCO) study is a quantitative online survey of the views of health professionals and women on aspects of contraceptive counseling and contraceptive use. Methods Physicians and women attending clinics for contraception were invited to complete online questionnaires. The research explored the knowledge and use of contraceptive methods, satisfaction with the current method and interest in receiving more information on all methods. Aspects related to contraceptive practice among physicians were gathered in parallel. The results obtained in the Brazilian research were compared with those of the European research, which involved 11 countries. Results There was a high prevalence of contraceptive use and general satisfaction with the current method. A total of 63% of the women were using short-acting contraceptive (SAC) methods, and 9% were using a long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC). Sixty-six percent of women were interested in receiving more information on all methods; 69% of women said they would consider LARC if they received more comprehensive information about it. Health professionals tend to underestimate the interest of women in receiving information about contraception in general, and more specifically about LARCs. Conclusion Despite the high levels of use and satisfaction with the current methods, women were interested in receiving more information on all contraceptive methods. Structured contraceptive counseling based on individual needs and expectations may lead to greater knowledge and a greater likelihood of proper contraceptive choice.

Resumo Objetivo A utilização ideal de métodos contraceptivos requer que as mulheres participem da escolha orientada sobre métodos que atendam às suas necessidades e expectativas individuais. O estudo Thinking About Needs in Contraception (TANCO)- Pensando nas Necessidades em Contracepção-é uma pesquisa quantitativa online de opiniões de profissionais de saúde e de mulheres sobre aspectos do aconselhamento contraceptivo e uso de anticoncepcionais. Métodos Médicos e mulheres que frequentam consultórios de atendimento visando contracepção foram convidados a preencher questionários online. A pesquisa explorou o conhecimento e ouso de métodos contraceptivos, a satisfação com o método atual, e o interesse em receber mais informações sobre todos os métodos. Aspectos relacionados à prática contraceptiva entre médicos foram reunidos em paralelo. Os resultados obtidos na pesquisa brasileira foram comparados aos da pesquisa europeia, que envolveu 11 países. Resultados Houve alta prevalência do uso de contraceptivos e satisfação geral com o método atual. Sessenta e três por cento das mulheres estavam usando métodos de curta duração (SAC, na sigla em inglês), e 9% estavam usando um método de longa ação (LARC, na sigla em inglês). Sessenta e seis por cento das mulheres estavam interessadas em receber mais informações sobre todos os métodos; 69% das mulheres disseram que considerariam um LARC se recebessem informações mais abrangentes sobre esse método. Os profissionais de saúde tendem a subestimar o interesse das mulheres em receber informações sobre a contracepção em geral e, mais especificamente, sobre os LARC. Conclusão Apesar dos altos níveis de uso e satisfação com os métodos atuais, as mulheres estavam interessadas em receber mais informações sobre todos os métodos contraceptivos. O aconselhamento contraceptivo estruturado, baseado nas necessidades e expectativas individuais pode levar ao maior conhecimento e à maior probabilidade de escolha contraceptiva adequada.

Consecutive Use of the 52 mg Levonorgestrel-releasing Intrauterine System: Variations in Bleeding Patterns.

OBJECTIVE: Changes in bleeding patterns could influence the decisions of healthcare professionals to change the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) before 7 years of use, the recommended period of extended use. We evaluated changes in the bleeding patterns of users of the 52 mg LNG-IUS at the end of use of the first (IUS-1) and during the second device (IUS-2) use. METHODS: We performed an audit of the medical records of all women who used two consecutive LNG-IUSs at the Family Planning clinic. We evaluated the sociodemographic/gynecological variables, the length of use, and the bleeding patterns reported in the reference periods of 90 days before removal of the IUS-1 and at the last return in use of IUS-2. We used the McNemar test to compare bleeding patterns. Statistical significance was established at p < 0.05. RESULTS: We evaluated 301 women aged (mean ± SD) 32 (±6.1) years, with lengths of use of 68.9 (±16.8) and 20.3 (±16.7) months for the IUS-1 and IUS-2, respectively. No pregnancies were reported. Bleeding patterns varied significantly among women who used the IUS-2 for ≥ 7 months to 6 years when compared the bleeding patterns reported in IUS-1 use. Eighty-nine out of 221 (40%) women maintained amenorrhea and infrequent bleeding; 66 (30%) evolved to bleeding patterns with light flow, and 66 (30%) maintained or evolved to heavy flow patterns (p = 0.012). No differences were observed among the 80 women with ≤ 6 months of use. CONCLUSION: Changes in bleeding patterns occur during the use of LNG-IUS and should not be decisive for the early replacement of the device.

OBJETIVO: Variações no padrão de sangramento podem afetar a decisão de troca do sistema intrauterino de levonorgestrel (SIU-LNG) antes do período de uso estendido recomendado de 7 anos. Nós avaliamos mudanças no padrão de sangramento de usuárias ao final do uso do primeiro SIU-LNG 52 mg (SIU-1) e durante o uso do segundo dispositivo (SIU-2). MéTODOS: Revisamos os prontuários de todas as mulheres que inseriram consecutivamente o SIU-LNG no ambulatório de Planejamento Familiar. Foram avaliadas as variáveis sociodemográficas/ginecológicas, o tempo de uso, e os padrões de sangramento relatados nos períodos de referência de 90 dias antes da remoção do SIU-1 e no último retorno em uso do SIU-2. Usamos o teste de McNemar para comparar os padrões de sangramento. A significância estatística foi estabelecida em p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: Analisamos os dados de 301 mulheres com idade (média ± desvio padrão [DP]) de 32 (±6,1) anos e tempo de uso de 68,9 (±16,8) e 20,3 (±16,7) meses para o SIU-1 e SIU-2, respectivamente. Nenhuma gravidez foi relatada. Os padrões de sangramento variaram significativamente durante o uso do SIU-2 (≥ 7 meses a 6 anos) em relação ao padrão relatado no SIU-1. Oitenta e nove das 221 (40%) mulheres mantiveram amenorreia e sangramento infrequente; 66 (30%) evoluíram para padrões de sangramento com fluxo leve e 66 (30%) mantiveram ou evoluíram para padrões de fluxo intenso (p = 0,012). Não foram observadas diferenças entre as 80 mulheres que utilizavam o SIU-2 há ≤ 6 meses. CONCLUSãO: Mudanças nos padrões de sangramento ocorrem durante o uso do LNG-IUS e não devem ser decisivas para a troca precoce do dispositivo.

Consecutive use of the 52 mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system: variations in bleeding patterns / Uso consecutivo do sistema intrauterino de levonorgestrel 52 mg: variações no padrão de sangramento

Abstract Objective Changes in bleeding patterns could influence the decisions of healthcare professionals to change the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) before 7 years of use, the recommended period of extended use. We evaluated changes in the bleeding patterns of users of the 52 mg LNG-IUS at the end of use of the first (IUS-1) and during the second device (IUS-2) use. Methods We performed an audit of the medical records of all women who used two consecutive LNG-IUSs at the Family Planning clinic. We evaluated the sociodemographic/gynecological variables, the length of use, and the bleeding patterns reported in the reference periods of 90 days before removal of the IUS-1 and at the last return in use of IUS-2. We used the McNemar test to compare bleeding patterns. Statistical significance was established at p < 0.05. Results We evaluated 301 women aged (mean ± SD) 32 (±6.1) years, with lengths of use of 68.9 (±16.8) and 20.3 (±16.7) months for the IUS-1 and IUS-2, respectively. No pregnancies were reported. Bleeding patterns varied significantly among women who used the IUS-2 for ≥ 7 months to 6 years when compared the bleeding patterns reported in IUS-1 use. Eighty-nine out of 221 (40%) women maintained amenorrhea and infrequent bleeding; 66 (30%) evolved to bleeding patterns with light flow, and 66 (30%) maintained or evolved to heavy flow patterns (p = 0.012). No differences were observed among the 80 women with ≤ 6 months of use. Conclusion Changes in bleeding patterns occur during the use of LNG-IUS and should not be decisive for the early replacement of the device.

Resumo Objetivo Variações no padrão de sangramento podem afetar a decisão de troca do sistema intrauterino de levonorgestrel (SIU-LNG) antes do período de uso estendido recomendado de 7 anos. Nós avaliamos mudanças no padrão de sangramento de usuárias ao final do uso do primeiro SIU-LNG 52 mg (SIU-1) e durante o uso do segundo dispositivo (SIU-2). Métodos Revisamos os prontuários de todas as mulheres que inseriram consecutivamente o SIU-LNG no ambulatório de Planejamento Familiar. Foram avaliadas as variáveis sociodemográficas/ginecológicas, o tempo de uso, e os padrões de sangramento relatados nos períodos de referência de 90 dias antes da remoção do SIU-1 e no último retorno em uso do SIU-2. Usamos o teste de McNemar para comparar os padrões de sangramento. A significância estatística foi estabelecida em p < 0,05. Resultados Analisamos os dados de 301 mulheres com idade (média ± desvio padrão [DP]) de 32 (±6,1) anos e tempo de uso de 68,9 (±16,8) e 20,3 (±16,7) meses para o SIU-1 e SIU-2, respectivamente. Nenhuma gravidez foi relatada. Os padrões de sangramento variaram significativamente durante o uso do SIU-2 (≥ 7 meses a 6 anos) em relação ao padrão relatado no SIU-1. Oitenta e nove das 221 (40%) mulheres mantiveram amenorreia e sangramento infrequente; 66 (30%) evoluíram para padrões de sangramento com fluxo leve e 66 (30%) mantiveram ou evoluíram para padrões de fluxo intenso (p = 0,012). Não foram observadas diferenças entre as 80 mulheres que utilizavam o SIU-2 há ≤ 6 meses. Conclusão Mudanças nos padrões de sangramento ocorrem durante o uso do LNG-IUS e não devem ser decisivas para a troca precoce do dispositivo.

Long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARCs) methods.

Unplanned pregnancy (UP) is a public health problem, which affects millions of women worldwide. Providing long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods is an excellent strategy to avoid or at least reduce UP, because the effectiveness of these methods is higher than other methods, and is indeed comparable to that of permanent contraception. As the initial introduction of the inert plastic intrauterine device (IUD) and of the six-rod implant, pharmaceutical companies have introduced a copper IUD (Cu-IUD), different models of levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG IUS), and one and two-rod implants, which certainly improved women's LARC options. The main characteristic of LARCs is that they provide high contraceptive effectiveness with a single intervention, and that they can be used for a long time. Emerging evidence from the last few years has demonstrated that it is possible to extend the use of the 52 mg LNG IUS and of the etonogestrel-implant beyond five- and three years, respectively, which adds new value to these LARCs.

Intracervical block for levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system placement among nulligravid women: a randomized double-blind controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Fear of pain during the insertion of intrauterine contraceptives is a barrier to using these methods, especially for nulligravidas. An intracervical block may be easier and more reproducible than a paracervical block; however, this intervention has not been evaluated in nulligravid women to reduce pain with intrauterine contraceptive insertion. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether a 3.6-mL 2% lidocaine intracervical block reduces pain at tenaculum placement and levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system insertion among nulligravidas; and, in addition, to assess whether the intracervical block has any effect on the ease of device insertion and on the overall experience with the procedure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this randomized double-blind controlled trial, nulligravidas were block-randomized to 1 of 3 arms prior to 52-mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system insertion: 3.6-mL 2%-lidocaine intracervical block, sham injection (intracervical dry-needling), or no intervention. The primary outcome was pain at levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system insertion. Secondary outcomes were pain at tenaculum placement, ease of insertion (assessed by healthcare providers), and the overall experience with the procedure (pain with levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system insertion compared with expectations, discomfort level, wish to undergo another device insertion in the future, and recommendation of the procedure to others). Participants' pain was measured with a 10-cm visual analogue scale and a 5-point Faces Pain Scale. Pain was summarized into categories (none, mild, moderate, severe) and also analyzed as a continuous variable (mean and 95% confidence interval). Our sample size had 80% power (α = 0.05) to detect a 15% difference in pain score measured by visual analogue scale (mean [standard deviation] visual analogue scale score = 5.9 [2.0] cm) and an absolute difference of 20% in the proportion of women reporting severe pain at levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system insertion among groups. We used a χ2 test and a mixed-effects linear regression model. We calculated the number needed to treat for the intracervical block to avert severe pain at tenaculum placement and levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system insertion. RESULTS: A total of 302 women were randomized (99 to the intracervical block, 101 to the intracervical sham, and 102 to no intervention), and 300 had a successful device insertion. The intracervical block group had fewer women reporting severe pain than the other groups, both at tenaculum placement (intracervical block: 2% vs sham: 30.2% vs no intervention: 15.2%, P < .0001) and at levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system insertion (intracervical block: 26.5% vs sham: 59.4% vs no intervention: 50.5%, P < .0001). The mean (95% confidence interval) pain score reported at levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system insertion was lower in the intracervical block group than in the other groups (intracervical block: 4.3 [3.8-4.9] vs sham: 6.6 [6.2-7.0], P < .0001; intracervical block: 4.3 [3.8-4.9] vs no intervention: 5.8 [5.3-6.4], P < .0001). Women from the intracervical block group reported less pain than expected (P < .0001), rated the insertion as less uncomfortable (P < .0001), and were more willing to undergo another device insertion in the future (P < .01) than women in the other groups. The ease of insertion were similar among groups. The number needed to treat for the intracervical block to avert severe pain at tenaculum placement and levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system insertion was 2 and 4, respectively. CONCLUSION: A 3.6-mL 2% lidocaine intracervical block decreased pain at tenaculum placement and levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system insertion among nulligravidas. It also provided a better overall experience during the procedure.

Reactional changes in short-term levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (lng-ius) use.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate endocervical and vaginal environment changes in women using a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS). METHODS: A quasi-experimental study included sixty women who had an LNG-IUS inserted in the Family Planning Clinic of UNICAMP between April and November of 2016. Women in reproductive age, non-pregnant, without the use of antibiotics and contraceptives seeking for LNG-IUS insertion were selected for this study. All women were evaluated with regard to vaginal and endocervical pH, vaginal and endocervical Gram-stained bacterioscopy, and Pap-smear before and two months after LNG-IUS insertion. Clinical aspects such as cervical mucus, vaginal discharge, and cervical ectopy were also observed. RESULTS: After LNG-IUS insertion, there was an increase in the following parameters: endocervical pH>4.5 (p=0.02), endocervical neutrophil amount (p<0.0001), vaginal cytolysis (p=0.04). There was a decrease in vaginal discharge (p=0.01). No statistically significant changes were found in vaginal pH, neutrophils amount in the vaginal mucosa, vaginal discharge appearance, vaginal candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, vaginal coccobacillary microbiota, cervical mucus appearance, or cervical ectopy size. CONCLUSIONS: Short-term LNG-IUS use did not increase vulvovaginal candidiasis or bacterial vaginosis, and led to diminished vaginal discharge. Notwithstanding, this device promoted reactional changes in the vaginal and endocervical environment, without modification on cervical ectopy size.

Reactional changes in short-term levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (lng-ius) use

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: To evaluate endocervical and vaginal environment changes in women using a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS). METHODS: A quasi-experimental study included sixty women who had an LNG-IUS inserted in the Family Planning Clinic of UNICAMP between April and November of 2016. Women in reproductive age, non-pregnant, without the use of antibiotics and contraceptives seeking for LNG-IUS insertion were selected for this study. All women were evaluated with regard to vaginal and endocervical pH, vaginal and endocervical Gram-stained bacterioscopy, and Pap-smear before and two months after LNG-IUS insertion. Clinical aspects such as cervical mucus, vaginal discharge, and cervical ectopy were also observed. RESULTS: After LNG-IUS insertion, there was an increase in the following parameters: endocervical pH>4.5 (p=0.02), endocervical neutrophil amount (p<0.0001), vaginal cytolysis (p=0.04). There was a decrease in vaginal discharge (p=0.01). No statistically significant changes were found in vaginal pH, neutrophils amount in the vaginal mucosa, vaginal discharge appearance, vaginal candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, vaginal coccobacillary microbiota, cervical mucus appearance, or cervical ectopy size. CONCLUSIONS: Short-term LNG-IUS use did not increase vulvovaginal candidiasis or bacterial vaginosis, and led to diminished vaginal discharge. Notwithstanding, this device promoted reactional changes in the vaginal and endocervical environment, without modification on cervical ectopy size.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Avaliar as alterações do ambiente endocervical e vaginal em mulheres usuárias de sistema intrauterino liberador de levonorgestrel (SIU-LNG). MÉTODOS: Um estudo quase-experimental incluiu 60 mulheres que inseriram o SIU-LNG na Clínica de Planejamento Familiar da UNICAMP entre abril e novembro de 2016. Mulheres em idade reprodutiva, não gestantes, sem uso de antibióticos e contraceptivos, em busca pela inserção do SIU-LNG, foram selecionadas para este estudo. Todas as mulheres foram avaliadas quanto ao pH vaginal e endocervical, bacterioscopia vaginal e endocervical por coloração de Gram, exame de Papanicolau antes e dois meses após a inserção de SIU-LNG. Aspectos clínicos como muco cervical, corrimento vaginal e ectopia cervical também foram observados. RESULTADOS: Após a inserção do SIU-LNG houve aumento nos seguintes parâmetros: pH endocervical >4,5 (p=0,02), quantidade de neutrófilos endocervicais (p<0,0001), citolise vaginal (p=0,04). Houve diminuição do conteúdo vaginal (p=0,01). Não foram encontradas alterações estatisticamente significativas no pH vaginal, na quantidade de neutrófilos na mucosa vaginal, apecto do corrimento vaginal, candidíase vaginal, vaginose bacteriana, microbiota cocobacilar vaginal, aparência de muco cervical ou tamanho da ectopia cervical. CONCLUSÃO: O uso do SIU-LNG em curto prazo não aumentou a candidíase vulvovaginal ou a vaginose bacteriana, levou à diminuição do conteúdo vaginal. No entanto, este dispositivo promoveu mudanças reacionais no ambiente vaginal e endocervical, sem modificação no tamanho da ectopia cervical.

Interventions for the prevention of pain associated with the placement of intrauterine contraceptives: An updated review.

A 2013 review found no evidence to support the routine use of pain relief for intrauterine contraceptive (IUC) placement; however, fear of pain with placement continues to be a barrier to use for some women. This narrative review set out to identify (1) new evidence that may support routine use of pain management strategies for IUC placement; (2) procedure-related approaches that may have a positive impact on the pain experience; and (3) factors that may help healthcare professionals identify women at increased risk of pain with IUC placement. A literature search of the PubMed and Cochrane library databases revealed 550 citations, from which we identified 43 new and pertinent studies for review. Thirteen randomized clinical trials, published since 2012, described reductions in placement-related pain with administration of oral and local analgesia (oral ketorolac, local analgesia with different lidocaine formulations) and cervical priming when compared with placebo or controls. Four studies suggested that ultrasound guidance, balloon dilation, and a modified placement device may help to minimize the pain experienced with IUC placement. Eight publications suggested that previous cesarean delivery, timing of insertion relative to menstruation, dysmenorrhea, expected pain, baseline anxiety, and size of insertion tube may affect the pain experienced with IUC placement. Oral and local analgesia and cervical priming can be effective in minimizing IUC placement-related pain when compared with placebo, but routine use remains subject for debate. Predictive factors may help healthcare professionals to identify women at risk of experiencing pain. Targeted use of effective strategies in these women may be a useful approach while research continues in this area.

Follow-up visits to check strings after intrauterine contraceptive placement cannot predict or prevent future expulsion.

OBJECTIVES: In some settings women are advised to return to the clinic after intrauterine contraceptive (IUC) placement, for a follow-up visit to check the strings and identify any expulsions. Our objective was to evaluate whether the number of follow-up visits to check the strings at the external cervical os after IUC placement predicts or prevents future expulsions. METHODS: This was a retrospective study conducted at the University of Campinas Medical School, Brazil. We reviewed the medical records of all women who used an IUC between January 1980 and December 2017, to identify women who had experienced IUC expulsion (N = 1974). We excluded women whose IUC was expelled more than once (n = 331) or after 10 years of use (n = 31). We fitted a generalised linear model of the time between IUC placement and expulsion, adjusting for several variables at expulsion. Significance was established at p < .05. RESULTS: Most expulsions (843/1612; 52.3%) occurred within the first 6 months after IUC placement and 691/1612 (42.9%) were within the first three months after placement. The adjusted model showed that the number of visits, the woman's age, and complaints of pain and bleeding during use were not significantly associated with and had no influence on expulsion. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that after IUC insertion more than one follow-up visit within the first four to six months after placement is not necessary, as additional visits to check for IUC strings do not appear to reduce or predict future expulsion.