Factors Related to Continuation and Discontinuation of Copper Intrauterine Devices Inserted by Nurses: Scoping Review

The acceptability and continued use of the copper intrauterine device (IUD) are linked to users’ experiences and the circumstances in which contraceptive care is provided. Objective: map evidence on the acceptability, continuation, and discontinuation of copper IUD use in healthcare settings with nursing involvement in insertion. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and reported in accordance with PRISMA-ScR. Searches covered PubMed, LILACS, SciELO, Scopus, and OpenAlex. Original quantitative studies published in Portuguese, English, or Spanish and available in full text were eligible. Data were synthesized descriptively, and lexical analysis was performed in IRaMuTeQ® using correspondence analysis. Results: Twelve studies were included. Bleeding and pain were reported as reasons for removal, and expulsion as an event associated with discontinuation. A desire to become pregnant and a preference for another method were also reported as reasons for discontinuation. The studies also reported satisfaction with the method and identified its effectiveness and nonhormonal nature as attributes favoring continued use. Lexical analysis distinguished content relating to choice and self-care from content concerning complications, care needs, and barriers to removal. Conclusion: Continuation and discontinuation should be interpreted in relation to users’ preferences, reasons for discontinuation, and the conditions of care. The findings inform nursing care throughout copper IUD use, including counseling, follow-up, management of complications, and responses to requests for removal.