Copper IUDs ‘underused’ for emergency contraception

The lack of Medicare rebate for this indication needs attention, say family planning doctors
Clare Pain
Copper IUD

Copper IUDs are frequently overlooked in primary care as an option for emergency contraception, a study shows.

The reasons are varied, including time pressure, lack of adequate remuneration, the need for trained clinicians to insert the device and the cost of the procedure for patients, say researchers from the University of Sydney and Family Planning NSW.