Using Levonorgestrel IUD for Emergency Contraception and Same-Day Start

Levonorgestrel 52 mg IUD for Emergency Contraception and Same-Day Start

Phase 4 Interventional University of Utah · NCT05444582

This study is testing if the Levonorgestrel IUD can be an effective option for emergency contraception when people start using it on the same day.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment1404 (estimated)
Ages16 Years to 35 Years
SexFemale
SponsorUniversity of Utah Academic / other
Locations8 sites (San Jose, California and 7 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05444582 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical research evaluates the effectiveness of the Levonorgestrel (LNG) 52 mg Intrauterine Device (IUD) for emergency contraception and same-day initiation in a real-world setting. Participants will be enrolled from various Planned Parenthood affiliates across the U.S. and will have the option to choose the LNG IUD based on their individual circumstances. The study aims to confirm previous findings that demonstrated the LNG IUD's efficacy in preventing pregnancy when used in these contexts, while also addressing current clinical guidelines that may restrict its use. By assessing a diverse population, the study seeks to provide insights into the practical application of this contraceptive method.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals seeking emergency contraception or those who wish to start using an IUD outside of their menstrual cycle.

Not a fit: Patients who are currently pregnant or have contraindications to the LNG IUD will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance access to effective emergency contraception and same-day IUD placement, reducing the risk of unintended pregnancies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with similar approaches, particularly the RAPID EC trial, which established the LNG IUD's efficacy for emergency contraception.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Meet clinic eligibility for IUD placement
* Have a LNG 52 mg IUD placed for either emergency contraception (had unprotected intercourse in the last 5 days) OR Same-day start, \>7 days since the onset of last menstrual period and have no report of unprotected intercourse in the last 5 days
* Negative high sensitivity urine pregnancy test prior to IUD placement.
* No known contraindications to the LNG 52 mg IUD per the CDC Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use 2016
* Have had penile-vaginal intercourse at least once since their last menstrual period. If last menstrual period is unknown or irregular, then have had penile-vaginal intercourse at least once in the last month.
* Fluent in English or Spanish
* Working Cell Phone number that receives text messages
* Willing to comply with the study requirements including providing 1-month follow up data including a urine pregnancy test result one month after IUD placement

Exclusion Criteria:

* Current pregnancy
* Currently Breastfeeding
* Current use of permanent contraception (has had a hysterectomy, tubal permanent contraception, or partner with a vasectomy in the last month)
* Use of any contraceptive pills, patches, vaginal rings or any contraceptive implant or IUD use in the last 4 weeks
* Use of oral emergency contraception in last 5 days
* Vaginal bleeding of unknown etiology
* Use of injectable hormonal contraceptive (Depo-Provera) in the last 6 months
* Planned use of any non-contraceptive estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone
* Acute cervicitis
* Known abnormalities of the uterus that distort the uterine cavity
* Ended pregnancy at or under 20 weeks gestational age within the last 2 weeks
* Ended pregnancy over 20 weeks gestational age within the last 6 weeks

Where this trial is running

San Jose, California and 7 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions ContraceptionEmergency ContraceptionIUD
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.