Interactions between intrauterine contraceptive device use and breast-feeding status at time of intrauterine contraceptive device insertion: analysis of TCu-380A acceptors in developing countries.
OBJECTIVE
This paper is a reassessment of earlier findings from a preliminary analysis of data from a multicenter international trial regimen on breast-feeding and non-breast-feeding women in which events related to insertion, expulsion, and removal of the TCu-380A intrauterine contraceptive device (ParaGard 380) were investigated.


METHODS
Performance of the TCu-380A through 12 months after insertion was compared with life-table rate analysis, chi 2, Fisher exact test, or Student's t test. Variables were events reported during intrauterine contraceptive device insertion and events throughout the 12 months of study participation by breast-feeding status.


RESULTS
Breast-feeding among intrauterine contraceptive device users was associated with fewer insertion-related complaints and lower removal rates for bleeding and pain. No uterine perforations were reported throughout the study.


CONCLUSIONS
Differences in the performance of the TCu-380A intrauterine contraceptive device suggest physiologic effects associated with lactational amenorrhea. The TCu-380A intrauterine contraceptive device is a viable option for women breast-feeding at the time of intrauterine contraceptive device insertion.
Farr
G
G
Family Health International, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709.
Rivera
R
R
D000328:Adult; D001942:Breast Feeding; D016208:Databases, Factual; D003906:Developing Countries; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007433:Intrauterine Device Expulsion; D007435:Intrauterine Devices, Copper / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D010146:Pain; D011247:Pregnancy; D014592:Uterine Hemorrhage / Q000209:etiology