The Mirena intrauterine system and user acceptability
J. Bowie, S. Ward
Family Planning Service, South Downs Health NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
Introduction: The Mirena Intrauterine System (IUS) provides excellent
contraception with high user acceptability. While the initial cost is expensive
in comparison with other methods, retention rates lower long-term costs and
effective counselling increases retention rates.
Objectives: To test the hypothesis that method acceptability of women
users of the IUS within Morley Street Community Family Planning Service is high
and that effective pre-IUS counselling increases the understanding of side
effects, user acceptability and retention rates.
Design and Method: A self completion questionnaire was sent to all 356
users of the method over the period December 2003 to January 2004.
Results: 152 users responded. A high level of satisfaction was evident
among users, many of whom indicated they would have a further IUS fitted after
the 5 year period or would recommend the method to friends.
Conclusion: Results indicated that the majority of users were highly
satisfied with the method. The IUS is a highly acceptable method, providing
excellent contraceptive cover as well as additional non-contraceptive benefits
to the user. It should be more widely available and strategies used to encourage
its use in vulnerable groups.
