Postpartum intrauterine device (PPIUD) insertion can result in fewer side effects and be more convenient for the client than insertion performed 6 weeks or more after delivery, but the standard postpartum insertion technique can be challenging for providers and has higher risk of infection for the client. To address these and other challenges, Population Services International (PSI), The Stanford Program for International Reproductive Education and Services (SPIRES), and Pregna International Ltd have jointly developed a dedicated PPIUD inserter, specifically designed for the post-delivery setting.
To determine if this new PPIUD inserter is feasible, acceptable, and safe, a proof of concept study was conducted with the primary objectives of assessing fundal placement and expulsion rates. Secondary objectives of participant satisfaction and IUD retention were also studied.
Results of the study, published in March 2016 in Global Health: Science & Practice, revealed the PPIUD inserter to be safe and effective with high acceptability among the participants and providers. A randomized controlled trial in India has been initiated to further investigate the acceptability of the dedicated inserter.