IUDs still ‘very safe’ in light of new research on breast cancer risk

Key Takeaways

  • A study out of Denmark found people with IUDs had a higher risk of developing breast cancer, but Northeastern experts say it’s important to put this research into context.

By: Erin Kayata

Intrauterine devices are one of the most effective reversible forms of birth control, despite the pain many go through during the insertion.

Northeastern University experts say that IUDs continue to be a strong option for patients hoping to avoid pregnancy, despite new research that shows that certain hormonal ones can lead to an increased risk of breast cancer.

“I think it’s still a very effective and very safe method overall,” said Kathy Simmonds, a clinical professor in the School of Nursing within the Bouvé College of Health Sciences.

study out of Denmark examining 78,595 women using IUDs with levonorgestrel and 78,595 women who don’t use these devices found those using IUDs had a 40% higher chance of developing breast cancer. 

While this sounds high, what this translates to for women in the United States is their breast cancer risk going from 1 in 204 to 1.4 in 204, which is important to put into consideration, experts stressed.

Continue reading at Northeastern Global News.