The Comparative Study of Different Contraceptive Methods between Copper T 380A and Norplant 6 Siriraj Experience

Objective: To evaluate and study the demographic and clinical profile among the users of these 2 different contraceptive methods, to assess the continuation rates of these 2 methods as well as the frequency of Pap smear screening plus the results of Pap smears in each contraceptive method. Methods: This was a case note-based study in which the data were transferred to a standardized pre-tested proforma. Results: During 1 January - 31 December 2001 There were 162 Copper T 380 A users and 307 Norplant 6 users. The age group of IUD users were found higher than Norplant-6 users with a statistical difference. The continuation rates after 5 years were 39.5% for copper T 380 A and 11.4% for Norplant users. The frequency of Pap smear screening as well as the follow up rate was found much higher in copper T 380 A. The results of Pap smear of these two groups using long-acting contraception were statistically different : IUD users had a higher infection rate but Norplant users had higher abnormal cells. After treatment all users return to normal Pap smear. Conclusion: This contraceptive study was conducted in 2001. The continuation rate for copper T 380 A was significantly higher than Norplant 6 and encouraged the participants to have Pap smear screening as well as keeping the appointment for follow up. The report of Pap smear screening was found abnormally higher in the Norplant users. Actinomyces infection was commonly found with copper T 380 A.