Absolute contraindication

Contraindication is a term used to indicate that the administration of a drug, or the carrying out of a medical procedure, is inadvisable. Some women in your community will not be able to use IUCDs because of a medical or health condition, and you will need to advise them accordingly. Women with the following conditions are advised not to use IUCDs.

• Current pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): IUCDs can worsen pelvic infections as a result of microbiological contamination during insertion. A woman having such problems should be advised to use another method.
• Known or suspected pregnancy: Because of its toxic effect on the fetus, IUCDs can cause abortion in pregnant women. So, if you suspect a woman is pregnant, you should not recommend an IUCD.
• Undiagnosed irregular genital tract bleeding: This can be due to uterine cancers. So you should refer the woman to hospital for further investigation.
• Known allergy to any constituent of the device: You should advise a woman with any history of allergy to IUCDs not to use the device. Help her choose a different contraceptive method.