Contraception usage in Turkey: Intrauterine devices
E. Zeynep and Tuzcular Vural
Haydarpasa Numune Education and Research Hospital, Family
Planning Unit, Istanbul
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are highly effective, safe,
reversible methods of contraception which are independent of intercourse and
have no known systemic effects. Being cost-effective and long-acting, IUDs are
preferred by many women world wide. There are three types of IUDs currently
being used: inert IUDs, copper IUDs and medicated IUDs. The most suitable
candidates for IUD use are parous women who have a monogamous relationship and
low risk for STIs and who want a reversible but long-term method of
contraception. IUDs can be inserted at various times including the menstrual,
postpartum, post abortion periods as well as for emergency contraception.
According to the 2003 Turkish Demographic and Health Survey,
IUDs are the most widely known and used modern method of contraception in Turkey.
Apparently they are known by 98.3 % of married women. 42.8 % of all married
women (currently and ever-married) have used IUDs during their reproductive
period. IUDs are the most popular currently used modern method (20.2%),
regardless of the geographic region in Turkey. Use of IUDs has raised steadily
throughout years and women using IUDs have more knowledge about side effects and
management of adverse effects of the contraceptive method they are using when
compared to users of other methods of contraception. Discontinuation rates and
failure rates are lowest among modern methods of contraception. IUDs are also
the most popular method which women plan to use in the future, according to 2003
Turkish Demographic and Health Survey.
IUDs are excellent contraceptives with many advantages and
should be offered to suitable candidates as a part of the contraceptive
spectrum.