Side Effects, Discontinuation, and Failure Rates of Copper T Intrauterine Contraceptive Device in Kano, Northern Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract Context: Intrauterine contraceptive device is one of the long-term reversible contraceptives that has gained popularity over the years globally. It is a procedure that has complications which can be mild to severe and may lead to discontinuation of the method. Aims: To determine the complications, discontinuation and failure rate of IUCD in Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Kano. Study Design: Prospective cohort study. Methodology: This was a cohort study of women who had IUCD inserted at family planning clinic of Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, between November 2018 and February 2019. Women were followed up for a period of 6 months to determine the complications, discontinuation, and failure rate within the period. Statistical Analysis: Microsoft Excel was used to obtain frequencies and percentages, and the data were represented using simple statistical tables. Data analysis was performed using SPSS Version 23.0. Results: Women in the age group of 30–39 years use IUCD more (64.29%) than other age group. Women of higher parity (5–9) constitute 60.71% of the clients. Complications were observed in 10 clients (17.86%). The most common complication was menorrhagia among 4 clients (7.14%): 2 clients (3.57%) developed abdominal pain and 2 (3.57%) had intermenstrual bleeding. The least complications were dyspareunia and hypomenorrhea observed in 1 client each (1.79%). Four clients opted for IUCD removal giving a discontinuation rate of 7.14%. Conclusion: Few of the clients have complications, and none become pregnant, with a low discontinuation rate indicating that IUCD is a safe and efficient contraceptive method.