Clinical performance of a levonorgestrel-releasing intracervical contraceptive device during the first year of use.

One-hundred-and-ninety-eight women used a new type of levonorgestrel-releasing intracervical contraceptive device (LNG-ICD) designed to release 20 micrograms levonorgestrel/day. The insertion took place within 7 days of menstruation. Clinical performance during the first year of LNG-ICD use was evaluated. Seven pregnancies occurred during the study period; one in an epileptic woman using carbamazepine, 300 mg/day, and the other six in healthy women after unnoticed expulsion of the ICD. Sixteen spontaneous expulsions occurred. The most common reasons for removal were side effects, including bleeding disturbances, hormonal side effects and other medical reasons. The continuation rate was 72.6 per cent after one year. Three pelvic infections were observed.