Academic Editor: Shigeki Matsubara
Background: Copper intrauterine devices (IUDs) are one of the most
commonly used methods of contraception all over the world. However, nearly 20%
of users have their IUD removed due to increased or irregular uterine bleeding.
We aimed to investigate if the occurrence of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) after
application of IUDs could be predicted using transvaginal color Doppler
ultrasonography in women without dysmenorrhea. Method: Fifty-five women
with regular menstruation without dysmenorrhea who were willing to use an IUD
were included in the study. The women were divided into two groups as those whose
menstrual characteristics did not change after IUD insertion (group A, n = 31)
and those who developed HMB secondary to IUD insertion (group B, n = 24). IUDs
were inserted on the 2nd or 3rd day of menstruation in all women and color
Doppler assessments of the uterine, arcuate, and utero-ovarian arteries were
performed twice; the first measurement was performed just before IUD deployment
and the second measurement was performed on the 2nd or 3rd day of menstruation
after 2 months. After recording these two measurements, Doppler parameters were
compared between the groups. Results: The first and the second
pulsatility index (PI) and resistance index (RI) values of the uterine arteries
were significantly lower in group B when compared with group A (p