Levosert IUS approved for extended contraceptive use

Levosert is the first IUS to be licensed for this extended duration of use.

The licence extension was supported by a study in 1751 women aged 16-45 years, which found that levonorgestrel 52mg IUS continued to be effective and well tolerated over six years of use.

Dr Paula Briggs, Consultant in Sexual and Reproductive Health, said: 'This licence update means that the IUS can now be used for up to six years in contraception and allows women to continue with their contraception for a longer period.

This news also lessens the burden of having to manage their contraception by allowing even more time between needing their IUS replaced, with the potential to also reduce workload for the NHS.'

Levosert is also indicated for up to 5 years' use in the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding.