Five-year review of copper T intrauterine device use at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar

BACKGROUND: The intrauterine devices (IUDs) are widely used contraceptive methods all over the world today. They are effective and recommended for use up to 10 years. They are not without side effects, which often prompt the users to request for removal. OBJECTIVE: To determine the utilization rate of copper T intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD), side effects, and request for removal at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar. METHODS: The data on usage of the various forms of temporary contraception provided by the Family Planning Clinic of this center from January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2010 were collated. The records of usage of IUCD during same period were carefully studied. RESULTS: During this period, a total of 10,880 users were provided with various forms of contraceptives. Copper T IUD was the commonest form of contraception used at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital Family Planning Unit over the period under review (2006–2010) with a rate of 4,069 (37.40%). There was a yearly higher request for IUCD over other forms of contraceptives over the period. Of a total of 4,069 users of the copper T IUD method over the period, 1,410 (34.65%) belonged to the age group of 25–29 years. Eleven (4.61%) of the users requested for its removal due to abnormal vaginal bleeding, while five (2.08%) removed theirs due to abnormal vaginal discharge. The major reason for removal was the desire for pregnancy that accounted for 165 (70.26%), while one (0.51%) was removed due to dysmenorrhea. CONCLUSION: The copper T380A was very effective, safe with fewer side effects, and easily available in this study. The request for removal is also low in our environment.