User satisfaction with a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS): data from an international survey.
OBJECTIVE
To identify the characteristics of an international population of women using the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) and their experiences with this contraceptive.


METHODS
Women who had used the LNG-IUS for six months or more completed a standardised questionnaire on reasons for use, user satisfaction and other aspects.


RESULTS
A total of 8680 questionnaires were completed by survey participants in 18 countries across Europe and the Near East. The average woman using the LNG-IUS was 38 years old, was married or lived with her partner, and had two children. Overall, 95% of patients were satisfied with the LNG-IUS; the percentage rose to 99% among those using their second LNG-IUS. Reasons mentioned for using the LNG-IUS included the need for contraception (68%), its high efficacy (59%) and the shorter/lighter menstrual bleeding (55%). Of the women with prior bleeding problems, 93% reported an improvement in their symptoms with the LNG-IUS. Participants also rated the reliability, tolerability and convenience of the method highly.


CONCLUSIONS
This survey provides insight into the profiles of LNG-IUS users. High levels of satisfaction with this method of contraception were reported by both first and second-time users. Our data suggest that the LNG-IUS is well accepted and that it provides considerable benefits beyond contraception alone.
Römer
Thomas
T
Evangelisches Krankenhaus Köln-Weyertal GmbH, Köln, Germany. Thomas.Roemer@evk-koeln.de
Linsberger
Doris
D
D000282:Administration, Intravaginal; D000328:Adult; D003267:Contraception / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D003271:Contraceptive Agents, Female / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005060:Europe / Q000453:epidemiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007436:Intrauterine Devices, Medicated / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D016912:Levonorgestrel / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D010349:Patient Compliance / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D017060:Patient Satisfaction / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016387:Women's Health; D055815:Young Adult
D003271:Contraceptive Agents, Female; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D016912:Levonorgestrel