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Morphological and Ultrastructural Changes in Human Endometrium Following Low-Dose Levonorgestrel Contraceptive Intrauterine Systems (LNG-IUS-12) 13.5 mg

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Abstract

Objective

To study the effect of low-dose levonorgestrel contraceptive intrauterine systems (LNG-IUS-12) on endometrial morphology and ultrastructure.

Methods

Twenty seven women who desired contraception were inserted LNG-IUS-12. Endometrial biopsies were collected during the late proliferative phase of the cycle before (control) and after the use of the LNG-IUS for 36 months. The changes of morphology and ultrastructure of endometrium tissue were observed by light microscope and transmission electron microscope.

Results

After 36 months of use, the endometrial gland reduced in number and some were atrophic. A decidual change of stroma was present. Electronic microscopy demonstrated the presence of low columnar, karyopyknosis, and chromatin margination in the glandular epithelial cell. Some vacuolar degeneration in partial mitochondria and rough endoplasmic reticulum presented light extension. Changes could be concluded as cell inhibition of proliferation.

Conclusions

The low-dose levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems has a suppressive effect on endometrium that is similar to LNG-IUS.

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Compliance with ethical requirements and Conflict of interest

The study was initiated after getting approval of the study from Institutional Review Board (IRB)/Independent Ethics Committee (IEC), in compliance with local laws. Ethical principles that have their origin in the world medical association declaration of Helsinki, and all applicable local laws, rules, and regulations relating to the conduct of the study were followed. The authors acknowledge the contributions of Liyan Wang for excellent technical assistance. No conflict of interest exists in the submission of this manuscript.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, 107#, West Wenhua Road, Jinan, 250012, China

    Minghan Chai (Obstetrician and Gynecologist), Shili Su & Baihua Dong

Authors
  1. Minghan Chai
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  2. Shili Su
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  3. Baihua Dong
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Baihua Dong.

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Chai, M., Su, S. & Dong, B. Morphological and Ultrastructural Changes in Human Endometrium Following Low-Dose Levonorgestrel Contraceptive Intrauterine Systems (LNG-IUS-12) 13.5 mg. J Obstet Gynecol India 65, 323–327 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13224-014-0620-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13224-014-0620-6

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