Barriers associated with the failure to return for intrauterine device insertion following first-trimester abortion

Background

The aim of the study was to identify barriers associated with the failure to return for delayed intrauterine device (IUD) insertion postabortion.

Study Design

This study had two components: (a) a retrospective cohort study of women who chose an IUD as their postabortion contraceptive method to compare characteristics of those who did and did not receive a device within 6 months of the procedure and (b) a prospective survey of women intending IUD use postabortion to assess actual IUD use at 6 weeks, barriers to access and attitudes on insertion timing.

Results

Of the 500 abortion patient charts available for review during the study period, 53 women intended IUD use postabortion. At 6 months, only 32% intending an IUD received one, and there were no significant demographic differences between the groups.For the prospective portion, the response rate at 6 weeks was 54% (27/50), with only 26% (7/27) of responders reporting IUD insertion by this time. The principal reported barrier to IUD insertion was time needed for an additional visit (41%). Most women (67%) desired immediate insertion and believed that they would be more likely to have an IUD inserted if it is performed immediately postabortion (63%). Monthly income was the only statistically significant difference between those who responded to the 6-week follow-up (US$1409.50) and those who did not (US$937.50, p=.05).

Conclusion

A significant number of women that express a preference for IUD use after first-trimester abortion do not return to obtain a device. Most would prefer to have the option of immediate insertion.