Comparative Study of Levonorgestrel and Copper T380A Intrauterine Devices in Breastfeeding Women in Assiut Egypt

Abstract

The benefits of breastfeeding to both the mothers and infants are well documented. As an Islamic country, breastfeeding is a popular practice in Egypt. Most people are following the recommendations mentioned in the Holy Quran "Mothers shall give suck to their children for two whole years (that is) for those (parents) who desire to compiete the term of suckling" (the Cow, verse 233).

The contraceptive effect of breastfeeding has been studied both prospectively and retrospectively. The conclusion is that breastfeeding offers a high degree of contraceptive protection under certain circumstances. For those women who do not meet the criteria. for protection defined by Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM) or those who intend to have a long-term contraception, another reliable method should be initiated early postpartum.

The concern about the risks for the breastfeeding infant has limited the contraceptive choice for women postpartum. The combined pills are known to affect both the quantity and the quality of breastmilk as the estrogen component has an inhibitory effect on lactation. On the other hand, many studies have demonstrated that progestogen only contraceptives (POP, Depo-Provera, NET-EN, NORPLANT® implants and Contraceptive vaginal Rings) have no adverse effects on lactation, breastmilk, health and growth of the infant.

The use of copper IUDs by postpartum women has been found to be safe and well tolerated. IUDs provides long-term effective protection and are coitus independent methods. However, the insertion of IUD is a . simple outpatient procedure. Heavy menstrual periods may occur in the