The use of levonorgestrel - IUD in the treatment of uterine myoma in Thai women.
OBJECTIVE
This study was designed to evaluate the potential usefulness of the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device (LNG - IUD ; Mirena) in treating women with uterine myomas.


METHODS
Prospective before-and-after (comparing) study.


METHODS
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital.


METHODS
Sixteen women with uterine myomas who intended to receive treatment with the LNG IUD.


METHODS
Clinical and ultrasound examinations were performed prior to and at 1, 3 and 6 months after the LNG IUD insertion.


METHODS
Myoma and Uterine volume, menstrual blood loss assessed with pictorial blood loss assessment charts and hematocrit.


RESULTS
Use of the LNG IUD was associated with a statistically significant reduction in the total myoma volume, average uterine size and marked reduction in menstrual blood loss. After 6 months of use, the median total myoma volume decreased from 19.82 mL to 11.63 mL (p < 0.05), median pictorial blood loss assessment chart score declined from 89 to 3 (p < 0.05). Hematocrit level increased over 6 months of use. The most common side effects were bleeding disturbances (68.8%). No pregnancies occurred during the study.


CONCLUSIONS
The LNG IUD was associated with a profound reduction in myoma and uterine volume. For women with myomas of this size, the LNG IUD provides effective medical treatment of bleeding.
Jindabanjerd
Kanok
K
Department of Obstetric and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
Taneepanichskul
Surasak
S
D000328:Adult; D003280:Contraceptives, Oral, Synthetic / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007436:Intrauterine Devices, Medicated; D016912:Levonorgestrel / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008598:Menstruation; D008875:Middle Aged; D009214:Myoma / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013785:Thailand; D013997:Time Factors; D014594:Uterine Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D014599:Uterus
D003280:Contraceptives, Oral, Synthetic; D016912:Levonorgestrel