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Whether women with HIV are at increased risk for
HIV remains controversial. An Italian cross-sectional study reported an increased risk of
HIV acquisition in IUD users. Also, the increased menstrual flow and duration seen in
nonprogesterone containing IUDs may increase transmission risk. The new
levonorgestrel-containing IUD (Mirena), however, decreases menstrual flow and duration.
There has been no increase in cervical HIV shedding in HIV-infected IUD users measured 4
months after IUD insertion. On the other hand, the IUD does not offer protection against
either HIV or sexually transmitted infections. |