Maintaining Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) in Teens (MINT): A Randomization Trial

Teenagers have the highest percentage of unintended pregnancies, and often struggle to comply with daily methods of contraception. The intrauterine device (IUD) provides safe, long-term protection and rates highly for patient satisfaction. It also does not require repeat prescriptions or clinic visits, making it a potentially attractive method among teens. However, in adolescent populations, there is both a lack of information about the IUD, as well as few studies that have examined the use of these devices. This study will examine whether a larger scale study on this topic is feasible. IT will address the feasibility of recruiting, consenting, screening, enrolling, randomizing, and retaining adolescents randomized to the LNG-IUS or Copper T 380a.

Inclusion criteria

Healthy, sexually active females age 14 to 18 who:

• Are interested in long term, reversible contraception
• Have regular menstrual cycles (21-35 days)
• Are not planning a pregnancy within the next 6 months

Exclusion criteria

Sexually active females age over the age of 18 or who:

• Are not interested in long term, reversible contraception
• Do not have regular menstrual cycles (21-35 days)
• Are planning a pregnancy within the next 6 months