Inserção de dispositivo intrauterino de cobre no pós-parto vaginal imediato guiada por ultrassonografia: experiência de Iniciação Científica

Abstract

The immediate postpartum period represents an important opportunity to offer contraceptive methods, especially in situations in which subsequent access to health services may be limited. The copper intrauterine device (IUD) is an effective and long-acting contraceptive option, although its insertion immediately after vaginal delivery is associated with higher expulsion rates. In this context, this study presents the undergraduate research experience developed at the Federal University of São Carlos, whose objective was to evaluate whether ultrasound-guided insertion of the copper IUD immediately after vaginal delivery would be associated with lower expulsion rates compared with the conventional technique. A randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial was conducted, with ultrasound follow-up between 40 and 60 days after delivery. The final sample consisted of 30 participants, 15 in the intervention group and 15 in the control group. Total, partial, and combined expulsion rates were 6.7%, 13.3%, and 20.0%, respectively, in the ultrasound-guided group, compared with 13.3%, 40.0%, and 53.3% in the control group. Although lower rates were observed in the intervention group, no statistically significant differences were identified. The experience contributed to the development of knowledge related to scientific methodology, data analysis, and critical thinking, in addition to representing an important academic opportunity through the Institutional Scientific Initiation Scholarship Program (PIBIC).