The effect of levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUD) and etonogestrel implant (ENG implant) on hemoglobin and ferritin levels

Aims: The aim of the study was to compare the changes in hemoglobin (Hgb) and ferritin levels before and 6 months after the administration of levonorgestrel-containing intrauterine device (LNG-IUD) with the changes in Hgb and ferritin levels in patients with etonogestrel-containing subcutaneous implant (ENG). Methods: Data for the study were collected retrospectively from eligible patients’ medical records on the hospital information management system. These data included Hgb (g/dl) and ferritin (mcg/L) values of patients with LNG-RI and ENG implants, and Hgb (g/dl) and ferritin (mcg/L) values measured 6 months after the implantation. The study included 80 patients with LNG-IUD and 49 patients with ENG implant. Results: When the Hgb and ferritin values of the LNG-IUD and ENG groups were compared before and after the application, it was found that both groups significantly increased Hgb and ferritin levels. When the two methods were compared with each other, it was observed that LNG-RIA was more successful in increasing Hgb and ferritin levels. Conclusion: Both LNG-IUD and ENG implant significantly increased Hgb and ferritin levels over the 6-month period; however, LNG-IUD was found to be more effective in improving these hematological parameters. Despite this, the ENG implant also demonstrated a notable increase in Hgb and ferritin levels and may be considered a valuable alternative, particularly in patients with prior intrauterine device dislocation, cervical stenosis, uterine anomalies, or myomas distorting the uterine cavity, as well as in those with contraindications to combined oral contraceptives or LNG-IUD use due to abnormal uterine bleeding or menorrhagia.