Résumé
To evaluate the awareness of Intrauterine Contraceptive Devices [IUD] among women, estimate the frequency of IUD use and identify the common symptomologies associated with the use of IUDs. A cross section survey was conducted in the OPD of OBG Department in Gulf Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, UAE, on 111 women aged 18-50 years who used any form of contraception. Data were collected using a 21 item pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire. Data was analyzed on PASW 19. Of the 111 participants, 58.6% were in the 18-29 years age group, with 36.9% Arabs and 63.1% Non-Arabs; 80.2% of them were married. Approximately 72% were aware of intra uterine devices. Oral contraceptive pills [54%] were used more often than IUDs [39.6%]. When asked specifically about IUDs, non-Arabs [62%] used IUDs more than Arabs, 45% used it because it was easier, 25% felt it was safer. For those who were aware of IUDs physicians [57%] were the main source of information. Among the users of IUD, around 52% used Copper T, 37% used Progestasert, and 10% used other IUDs [mainly Mirena]. The majority of IUD users complained of high fever and irregular bleeding [32.9% of cases each], followed by lower abdominal pain and pain with coitus [26%], and 20% vaginal discharge. Failure of IUDs was reported in 7 women [15.9%], three had normal delivery and two each had miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy. We could not establish a relation between types of IUDs and changes in menstrual pattern. Even with the wide availability of mass media and the internet 28% of the women were not aware of IUDs. Despite being a safe method most did not use this method of contraception. Efforts must be made to educate women about the different choices they have for contraception with their indications and contraindications