Interactions between intrauterine contraceptive device use and breast-feeding status at time of intrauterine contraceptive device insertion: analysis of TCu-380A acceptors in developing countries.

OBJECTIVE: This paper is a reassessment of earlier findings from a preliminary analysis of data from a multicenter international trial regimen on breast-feeding and non-breast-feeding women in which events related to insertion, expulsion, and removal of the TCu-380A intrauterine contraceptive device (ParaGard 380) were investigated. STUDY
DESIGN: Performance of the TCu-380A through 12 months after insertion was compared with life-table rate analysis, chi 2, Fisher exact test, or Student's t test. Variables were events reported during intrauterine contraceptive device insertion and events throughout the 12 months of study participation by breast-feeding status.
RESULTS: Breast-feeding among intrauterine contraceptive device users was associated with fewer insertion-related complaints and lower removal rates for bleeding and pain. No uterine perforations were reported throughout the study.
CONCLUSION: Differences in the performance of the TCu-380A intrauterine contraceptive device suggest physiologic effects associated with lactational amenorrhea. The TCu-380A intrauterine contraceptive device is a viable option for women breast-feeding at the time of intrauterine contraceptive device insertion.