RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PELVIC INFECTION AND USE OF INTRAUTERINE DEVICE

Abstract

Introduction: Many women and men of reproductive age want to regulate their fertility. Among the contraceptive methods, intrauterine devices are especially preferred. However, the most important disadvantage of the intrauterine devices is pelvic infection. In this retrospective study, the aim was to examine the relationship between IUD use and pelvic infection.

Methods: Our research was planned as a retrospective study. 76 women diagnosed with pelvic infection in our hospital constitute the case group, and 80 women who applied to the outpatient clinic with different gynecological problems other than infection constitute the control group. The contraceptive method used by the participants was determined from the information obtained. The contraceptive method last used by the participants in the reproductive period was taken as a basis.

Results: There was no statistical difference between the two groups in terms of age, parity, gravida, and the number of living children (p>0.05). It was determined that the frequency of pelvic infection was higher in intrauterine devices users compared to the control group. This is also statistically significant (p<0.01). Participants using intrauterine devices and non-intrauterine devices users were compared for signs and symptoms of infection. It was observed that intrauterine devices users who underwent tubo-ovarian abscess had a statistically significantly lower response to medical treatment compared to those who did not use IUDs (p<0.01).

Conclusion: Pelvic infections must be ruled out before intrauterine devices application. After intrauterine devices application, women should be educated about the signs and symptoms of pelvic infection and carefully monitored.