Characteristics of users of intrauterine devices and other reversible contraceptive methods in the United States

ObjectiveTo evaluate the determinants of intrauterine device (IUD) use and reasons for choosing IUDs over other reversible contraceptive methods.DesignDescriptive statistics and multinomial logistic regression were used to assess multiple factors associated with IUD use and the use of other reversible methods in the United States.SettingNot applicable.Patient(s)Women at risk of pregnancy from the 2006 to 2008 National Survey of Family Growth and a 2004 Guttmacher Institute survey.Intervention(s)None.Main Outcome Measure(s)Sociodemographic and reproductive characteristics, family background, and health insurance coverage.Result(s)IUD use was positively associated with women’s parity and the highest education level of respondent’s mother; it was less common among women who had ≥4 sexual partners in the last 12 months and those who were widowed, divorced, or separated. IUD users reported pregnancy prevention, provider recommendation, and no interruption of sex as the most important reasons for choosing the method and reported a high level of satisfaction.Conclusion(s)IUD users differed substantially from users of other reversible contraceptives. IUD use was especially uncommon among nulliparae. Most current IUD users were satisfied with their choice.