Intra-cesarean section insertion of copper-T380 versus Multiload Cu 375 intrauterine device as an immediate method of contraception: a comparative study

Abstract Background Intrauterine copper devices (IUCDs) are effective methods of contraception. The most utilized types are the Multiload Cu 375 IUD and the Cu T380 IUD. This study compared the expulsion rate and side effects of Multiload Cu 375 IUD versus copper T 380 IUD when inserted during cesarean section (CS). This comparative study was conducted at Women’s Health Hospital, Assiut University, Egypt, from June 2023 to March 2024. We divided participants into two groups: group I (Copper T 380) versus group II (Multiload Cu 375). The primary outcome was the rate of expulsion between both groups at 6 weeks and 6 months after insertion. At the same time, the secondary outcomes were the bleeding pattern, pelvic infection/vaginal infection. Results A total of 143 women were eligible for this study. There was no difference between the two groups regarding basic demographic data. The study reported no difference between group I and group II at expulsion rate (9.4% vs 8.1%, p -value = 0.5) and pelvic or vaginal infection (1.6% vs 3.2%, p -value = 0.7) at 6-week follow-up duration. However, menstrual bleeding was higher in the copper T380 than the Multiload CU 375 group ( p -value = 0.02). At 6-month follow-up, there was no difference between the two groups in the expulsion rate, menstrual pattern, and pelvic or vaginal infection. Conclusion This study underscores that the use of either copper T380 or Multiload Cu IUDs is an effective and safe long-term contraceptive option for postpartum contraception when inserted during CS. The choice between them may ultimately depend on side effect profiles, availability, and clinician preference.