Abstract
Background:
Actinomyces colonization is a known complication associated with long-term intrauterine device (IUD) use. Understanding the clinical and demographic characteristics of affected patients may help clarify the relationship between extended IUD use and the risk of colonization.
Methods:
Between 2014 and 2024, 259 patients who used copper IUDs and were diagnosed with Actinomyces were retrospectively reviewed from the electronic hospital database of Istanbul Training and Research Hospital, Health Sciences University. Patient demographics, including age, parity, history of abortion, duration of IUD use, clinical symptoms, and diagnostic methods were recorded. Actinomyces diagnosis was made via cytological smears and histopathological confirmation was obtained in a limited number of cases that underwent surgery. Descriptive statistics and correlation tests were used in statistical analyses; significance level was set at p < 0.05.
Results:
The majority of the 259 patients included in the study had been using IUDs for longer than average duration. The most common complaints were vaginal discharge and pelvic pain, while a significant number of cases were asymptomatic. The diagnosis was mostly made by cytological smear test. Statistical analyses revealed a significant positive correlation between IUD use duration and age (p < 0.05). No significant association was found between gravidity, parity, abortion history, and Actinomyces diagnosis. These findings suggest that prolonged IUD use is the most significant risk factor for Actinomyces colonization.
Conclusion:
Long-term use of copper IUDs is a significant risk factor for Actinomyces colonization. These findings emphasize the importance of regular follow-ups and timely IUD replacement to reduce infection-related complications.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.