POP-IN
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Use of a dedicated insertion device for immediate postpartum intrauterine contraception provision: a feasibility randomised controlled trial
IRAS ID
350561
Contact name
Sharon Cameron
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Edinburgh
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 10 months, 30 days
Research summary
An intrauterine device (IUD), ("coil") is a popular form of birth control. It's a small, T-shaped device that can be hormonal or made of copper. A healthcare professional inserts the IUD into the womb through the cervix. IUDs can also be inserted right after childbirth, which is known as postpartum intrauterine device insertion (PPIUD).
Research shows that PPIUD is safe and can be less painful because the cervix is already open from giving birth. It also eliminates the need for a separate appointment later for insertion. Typically, metal forceps are used to insert the IUD, an Indian manufacturer has designed a new plastic inserter specifically designed for postpartum use. This new inserter is longer and better fits the womb’s size after childbirth. It has been approved by the World Health Organization and tested in India and Africa. This study will be the first to test this new inserter in the UK.
This study will use the new inserter for placing an IUD after childbirth and see if it makes the process easier and more comfortable than the current method using metal forceps. If the study proves successful, this plastic inserter could be offered in the NHS, making IUDs more accessible for women after giving birth.
The study will involve 120 participants who want an IUD after a vaginal birth. They will be randomly split into two groups: one will receive an IUD using the standard metal forceps, while the other will use the new plastic inserter. This randomization ensures that any differences in results are solely due to the technique used.
The study will compare several factors between the two groups, including how many IUDs are correctly positioned, how easy the insertion was, participants' comfort levels, any complications, and how many IUDs remain in place after 6 and 12 weeks.REC name
North West - Greater Manchester South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/NW/0226
Date of REC Opinion
23 Sep 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion