IUDs may also prevent cervical cancer

Doctors have long promoted IUDs, or intrauterine devices, as an effective way to prevent pregnancy. Now, in a finding that has surprised even the experts, research suggests that IUDs have an unexpected benefit: preventing cervical cancer.

According to research released Monday, who had used an IUD had almost half the risk of cervical cancer as other women. The international analysis, published in The Lancet Oncology, combined data from 26 studies with a total of more than 20,000 women.

Although doctors have known for some time that women who use IUDs have a lower risk of cancer of the lining of the uterus, researchers say they never suspected that the devices might protect against tumors of the cervix, says Xavier Castellsagué of Institut Català d’Oncologia in Barcelona, Spain. In fact, researchers believed IUDs might increase cervical cancer risk.

“These findings are excellent good news,” Castellsagué says.

By Liz Szabo, for original article, click here.

J. Kyle Mathews, MD

Plano OB Gyn Associates

Plano Urogynecology Associates

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