To examine whether intrauterine devices (IUD) increases the intrauterine bacterial infection, bacterial culture was performed before the IUD (Lippes Loop) insertion and 2 weeks-3 months after the insertion. The study population included 100 womenwho visited the MCH Center of the South Health Center in Taegu for IUD insertion between November 15, 1987 and February 15, 1988. The selection criteria were; have at least one child, have no signs of vaginitis or cervicitis by inspection of an obstetrician, and have not used antibiotics within the last one-month. Endocervical secretion was cultured on thio
glycollate broth, blood agar and chocolate agar: and examined by Gram stain.´ Out of 100 women, 80 women had a follow-up examination and culture. The characteristics of 20 dropouts were not remarkably different from those followed.
The most frequently isolated bacteria in the initial culture were Gardnerella vaginalis (41.0%), Lactobacillus (34.0%) and Staphylococcus epidermidis(21.O%) all of which are non-pathogenic normal flora. The results, of follow-up culture were similar´´ to the initial culture: Gardnerella vaginalis(48.8%),- -Lactobacillus(32.5%) and-Staphylococcus epidermidis(35.0% ).
There was no women who had any sign of infection after IUD insertion. This study could not find any evidence of increased risk of intrauterine infection after IUD insertion.
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