Objective

To assess the user profiles of copper intrauterine devices (Cu-IUD) and levonorgestrel intrauterine systems (LNG-IUS) in France in 2019 and the rates of continuation 1 year later.

Methods

A population-based study was conducted of all French women aged 13–49 years for whom an IUD was dispensed in 2019. Information was collected from the French National Health Data System about their characteristics at the time of dispensation and indicators of continued use 1 year later. Associations between these characteristics and the type of IUD were analyzed using multivariate regressions.

Results

A total of 477 705 Cu-IUDs and 355 242 LNG-IUSs (mean age 32.5±7.3 and 36.4±7.7 years, respectively) were dispensed in 2019. After adjustment, having a LNG-IUS rather than a Cu-IUD was associated with being aged 35–44 years compared to 25–35 years (odds ratio [OR_35–44] 2.03, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.01–2.05), having a prescription by a gynecologist rather than a general practitioner (OR_35–44 1.09, 95% CI 1.08–1.11), and having a gynecological history (OR_35–44 2.28, 95% CI 2.20–2.36). The continuation rates 1 year after dispensation were 86.4% for Cu-IUD versus 85.7% for LNG-IUS. A Cu-IUD dispensation rather than a LNG-IUS one was associated with a higher chance of continued use 1 year later.

Conclusion

Two different patterns of use of Cu-IUDs and LNG-IUSs in France are highlighted.