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Use of the Levonorgestrel Intrauterine Device in an Adolescent with Type IV Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Heavy Menstrual Bleeding, a Case Report

  • M. Wilde
    Affiliations
    Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
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  • G. Moyer
    Affiliations
    Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
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  • P.S. Huguelet
    Correspondence
    Address correspondence to: Patricia Huguelet, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado and Children's Hospital Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13123 E. 16th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80045; Phone (720) 777-6439.
    Affiliations
    Section of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Children's Hospital Colorado, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
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Published:February 20, 2023DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpag.2023.02.001

      ABSTRACT

      Background

      Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of connective tissue disorders of altered collagen synthesis. People with vascular EDS are at increased risk for vascular and hollow viscous rupture. Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) is common among adolescents with EDS. The levonorgestrel intrauterine device (LNG-IUD) is an effective treatment option for HMB; however, its use in patients with vascular EDS has historically been avoided due to perceived risk of uterine rupture. This is the first known case report on use of the LNG-IUD in an adolescent with vascular EDS.

      Case

      A 16-year-old female with vascular EDS and HMB underwent placement of the LNG-IUD. Placement of the device was performed in the operating room under ultrasound guidance. At the 6-month follow-up, the patient reported significant improvement in bleeding and high satisfaction. No complications were identified at the time of placement or follow-up.

      Summary and Conclusion

      LNG-IUD may be a safe and effective option for menstrual management in individuals with vascular EDS.

      Key Words

      Abbreviations:

      LNG-IUD (levonorgestrel intrauterine device), IUD (intrauterine device), HMB (heavy menstrual bleeding), EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome)
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