Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The intrauterine device is the most widely used reversible method of contraception in the world today, particularly in developing countries where it is used by 27 % of women of reproductive age. The impact of intrauterine devices on cervicovaginal cytology is not certainly known. The aim of the study was to investigate cervical cytology changes associated with levonorgestrel intrauterine system use.

METHODS

This study was conducted at department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İzmir Tepecik education and research Hospital. We evaluated the pap smear results of the 129 patients before and after insertion of levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device.

RESULTS

İnflammation was observed in 20 (%15.5) patients before insertion of levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device and in 59 (% 45.7) patients after insertion (P<0.001). Similarly, before insertion 3 (%2.3) patients were diagnosed with chronic cervicitis and after insertion 15 ( %11.6) patients were diagnosed with chronic cervicitis (P=0.003). No significant results were found with respect to cytopathological abnormalities following insertion of the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

No significant cytopathological abnormalities were detected following insertion of the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device but higher frequency of nonspecific inflammatory changes were observed after insertion. Patients should be informed about the risk of nonspecific inflammation before insertion and Pap Smear should be recommended 12 months after insertion.