Take a fresh look at IUDs. Things have changed.

BACKGROUND

Over the past few years, the intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) has overcome many of the problems that had initially made it unpopular. Today it is probably the most cost effective reversible form of contraception available.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the reasons for poor utilisation of IUDs in Australia and to describe recent developments in the field of intrauterine devices/systems.

DISCUSSION: Myths concerning mechanisms of action and the potential for pelvic inflammatory disease, lack of familiarity, training and high insurance costs continue to limit the ability of general practitioners to fully utilise the potential of IUDs. The introduction of the levonorgestrel releasing intrauterine system has however, broadened the indication for IUDs from just being contraceptive to being therapeutic for several gynaecological conditions.