Does duration of use of LNG-IUDs vary by contraceptive experience of the provider?

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate whether duration of LNG-IUD use varies by the contraceptive experience of the provider. Methods: 49 499 women who had a LNG-IUD prescription during 2010 and 2011 were identified from the NorPD database. The contraceptive experience of the providers was measured as number of prescriptions for any hormonal contraception, and number of LNG-IUD prescriptions in 2008/2009. Duration of use was estimated by survival analysis and Cox regression models were used to predict determinants of discontinuation. Results: General practitioners and gynecologist had the most experience prescribing LNG- IUDs. Continuous use of the device increased with age and was highest among older women. Providers experience related to number of LNG-IUD prescription before study start did not have an effect on duration of use, neither did providers profession. Young women under the age of 20 had the highest probability to change to another hormonal contraceptive method (Hazard rate 1,97 (95% CI: 1,77 – 2,19)). Women in the age groups 40 – 44 and 45 – 49 were more likely to continue their use of LNG-IUD (Hazard rate 0,96 (95% CI: 0,94 – 0,99) and Hazard rate 0,96 (95% CI: 0,93 – 0,99), respectively). New user and continuous user of LNG-IUD were associated with increased probability for changing to another hormonal contraceptive method (Hazard rate 1,10 and 1,05, respectively). Conclusion: The duration of use of LNG-IUD did not vary by the contraceptive experience of the provider. Users age, new use and continuous use of the device was significantly associated with duration of use.