Mothers'Experiences with Postpartum Intrauterine Contraceptive Devices at the Mother and Child Hospital, Ondo, Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The high fertility rate and unmet need for contraception are partly responsible for the high maternal mortality ratio in Nigeria. The intrauterine contraceptive devices are among the safest and most effective methods available.

Objective: This study aimed to eoaluate the complications and side effects of postpartum intrauterine
contraceptive device insertions in a busy maternity centre.

Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted from 1^st July 2013 to 30^th June 2014 at the Mother and Child Hospital Ondo,Ondo State, South West Nigeria. Inclusion criteria were married multiparae with at least one previous vaginal delivery who gave consent for insertion.The intrauterine contraceptive devices were inserted from 10 minutes up to 48 hours after delivery. The women were re-evaluated 3 months after for complications and side effects(perforation,abnormal vaginal bleeding/dischargeand missing device).The results were entered into an Excel spreadsheet and analysed. 

Results: The number ofwomen counseled for postpartum intrauterine contraceptive devices in the period of study was 350. One hundred of them were enrolled for insertion out ofthe 103 that consented accounting for 29.4%. The mean age was 33.0 ± 4.9 years. Sixty-five women were grand-multiparous and 85 attained secondary education.Only 34 participants complied with re-evaluation visits.Six women (17.6%) complained of heavier menstrual flow while only one(2.9%) requested for removal due to spousal discomfiture

Conclusion: Postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device insertions were found to be safe and tolerable. They are recommended for other maternity centres offering family planning services.