The multiload IUD--a U.S. researcher's evaluation of a European device.
This evaluative review focused on the performance and safety of the Dutch-made Multiload copper IUD, primarily the Multiload-375 (MLCu-375) model which has a longer life expectancy (5 or more years) than the Multiload-250 (MLCu-250) model, usually cited for a life expectancy for three years. This copper-medicated IUD differs from the copper-T IUDs in shape and insertion technique. The review shows that (a) the MLCu-375 IUD seems to be slightly less effective in preventing pregnancies than TCu-380A IUD. Its efficacy is comparable to that of the Nova-T by two to three years of use; (b) the MLCu-250 IUD is similarly effective to TCu-200 but may be slightly less effective than TCu-220C; (c) no consistent differences were detectable in expulsion rates or in removal rates for bleeding/pain between the Multiload IUDs and comparative Copper-T IUDs; (d) the Multiload IUDs may perform better in nulliparous women than the T-shaped devices; (e) no or a very low incidence of uterine perforation is associated with insertions of the Multiload IUD; (f) ectopic pregnancy risks are similarly low in Multiload IUD users as in Copper-T-380A users; and (g) pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) risks are similarly low in Multiload IUD users as in users of T-shaped copper IUDs.
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Family Health International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007433:Intrauterine Device Expulsion; D007435:Intrauterine Devices, Copper / Q000009:adverse effects; D000292:Pelvic Inflammatory Disease / Q000209:etiology; D014592:Uterine Hemorrhage / Q000209:etiology; D014595:Uterine Perforation / Q000209:etiology