TY - JOUR T1 - A Global Learning Agenda for the Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System (LNG IUS): Addressing Challenges and Opportunities to Increase Access JF - Global Health: Science and Practice JO - GLOB HEALTH SCI PRACT SP - 635 LP - 643 DO - 10.9745/GHSP-D-18-00383 VL - 6 IS - 4 AU - Kate H. Rademacher AU - Tabitha Sripipatana AU - Anne Pfitzer AU - Anna Mackay AU - Sarah Thurston AU - Ashley Jackson AU - Elaine Menotti AU - Hayley Traeger Y1 - 2018/12/27 UR - http://www.ghspjournal.org/content/6/4/635.abstract N2 - The LNG IUS is one of the most effective forms of reversible contraception and has important noncontraceptive benefits but is currently not used at scale in any Family Planning 2020 focus country. A global working group developed a shared learning agenda to answer critical questions, harmonize approaches, avoid duplication, and facilitate introduction of the method within the context of informed choice.The levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG IUS) is one of the most effective forms of reversible contraception with efficacy rates similar to subdermal implants and copper intrauterine devices (IUDs).1 The LNG IUS is also associated with a number of important noncontraceptive health benefits, including treatment for menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding) and uterine fibroids and potentially for anemia.2–4 In addition, as a result of the localized release of hormones and relatively low systemic blood levels compared with other hormonal methods, the side effects for the LNG IUS may be less pronounced than side effects with other hormonal contraceptives.5,6 (See Box 1 for a summary of the method's advantages.)BOX 1 Summary of Advantages of the LNG IUSHighly effective contraceptive methodLong-acting and reversibleRapid return to fertility after removalCan lead to reduced menstrual bleeding and crampingLocalized release of hormones and relatively low systemic blood levels compared with other hormonal methods (side effects for the LNG IUS may be less pronounced)Removal can be easier than implant removalsNoncontraceptive health benefits including treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding and potential reduction in iron-deficiency anemiaMay help protect against endometrial and cervical cancerNo further action or supplies required once the LNG IUS is insertedCan be used immediately postpartum and post-abortion (Note: Manufacturers' labels for LNG IUS products do not currently include an indication for immediate postpartum insertions. However, the World Health Organization's Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use categorizes immediate postpartum … ER -