Safety of intrauterine contraceptive device (copper T 200 B) in women with cardiac disease.

BACKGROUND

Women with cardiac disease have need for effective long-lasting reversible contraception. Women with cardiac disease are at increased risk for bacterial endocarditis. There is limited research regarding the use of intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUD) in women with cardiac disease.

STUDY

DESIGN

In a prospective study, the IUD copper (Cu T200B) was inserted in 40 women with cardiac disease. Infective endocarditis prophylaxis was given 1 h before IUD insertion. The IUD was inserted under aseptic conditions. Ten milliliters of venous blood was obtained for culture of aerobic and anerobic bacteria within 1 h of insertion of the copper T IUD. Women were contacted for follow-up at frequent intervals.

RESULTS

There was no incidence of uterine perforation, hemorrhage or spontaneous expulsion of the IUD. All blood cultures were sterile. There were no cases of infective endocarditis. Four women (10%) had menorrhagia at the 6-month follow-up which responded to medical management. One woman had PID for which antibiotics were given. Five women had mild cramps and five had spotting after insertion of the IUD. Patient adherence was excellent as none returned for removal for reasons other than desire for another pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

The Cu T200B IUD is a reasonably safe and effective method of temporary contraception in women with cardiac disease who are not receiving anticoagulant therapy.