Barriers to intrauterine device insertion in postpartum women

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine the proportion of postpartum women at the University of New Mexico who choose an IUD for contraception, the number who actually obtain one and the barriers to postpartum IUD insertion. METHOD: We conducted a retrospective chart review of 1627 postpartum women who delivered at the University of New Mexico. Those women who indicated at hospital discharge that they desired an IUD comprised the study group of 193 women. Medical records were reviewed to identify the timing of IUD placement. If an IUD was not inserted, we attempted to determine the reason by reviewing clinic records. RESULTS: Twelve percent of postpartum women requested an IUD. Records were available for 114 women. Of these, only 69 (60%) actually obtained an IUD. Barriers to postpartum IUD insertion included provider advice against the IUD, patient failure to return for a postpartum visit and early repeat pregnancy. CONCLUSION: We conclude that postpartum women desiring an IUD may have difficulty obtaining one.