The Department of Health has received five reports of breakage and expulsion of a batch of intra-uterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs) in the past 12 months and women using such devices will be contacted for follow-up.
As the contraceptive effect may be affected, the department and the Family Planning Association of Hong Kong (FPAHK) will contact the women concerned for checkups including the removal and replacement of IUCDs if necessary.
A total of 1,161 IUCDs, of the model Copper T380A and batch number FD 010201, were used by department's Family Health Services and FPAHK between 2001 and 2003.
The supplier of the affected device was Medico Techno Pte Ltd of Singapore.
A spokesman for the Department of Health said the replacement was a precautionary measure as there had not been any report of major side effects relating to using the affected IUCD so far.
"In the past 12 months, FPAHK has reported a total of five cases of the device found broken and being partially or completely expelled from the uterus. No similar occurrence has been noted among the department's clients.
"Broken and expelled IUCDs will obviously affect contraceptive effect. Women inserted with IUCDs should immediately consult their doctors and take other contraceptive measures if the IUCDs are found to be expelled."
"Using an IUCD is a very effective and safe method of contraception. It carries uncommon complications such as expulsion and pelvic infection. Women inserted with an IUCD should immediately consult their doctors if they suspect they are pregnant, or have abnormal or severe abdominal pain, excessive menstrual flow or abnormal vaginal discharge," he added.
The spokesman reminded women inserted with all models of IUCD to attend checkups regularly.
The Department of Health and FPAHK are taking steps to contact their clients for follow-up.
The department has set up telephone hotlines 2961 8839 and 2961 8740 to answer public enquiries on the matter. The hotlines will operate until 9pm today and during office hours from tomorrow. The hotline of FPAHK is 2919 7725.
Related report : Follow-up of Breakage of Intra-uterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD) (January 18, 2006)
Reprinted from HKSAR Government web page:
http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200512/13/P200512130145.htm