Genotoxicity evaluation of levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) in exfoliated cervical cells using the micronucleus (MN) test

PurposeThis study aimed to determine whether any relationships exist between the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) and micronuclei or other nuclear anomalies, including condensed chromatin, karyorrhexis, and karyolysis, on the cervical epithelium in young women. MethodsA prospective observational study was conducted. The study population comprised healthy women aged [≤]40 years who were referred for birth control. Cervical smears that were obtained from 18 women before and three months after LNG-IUS insertion were tested for micronuclei and other nuclear anomaliesusing the micronucleus test. ResultsThe results revealed no statistically significant difference (P>0.05) in the frequency of micronucleated exfoliated cervical mucosa cells after LNG-IUS exposure. However, LNG-IUS was able to increase other nuclear alterations closely related to cytotoxicity. ConclusionsData indicated that exposure to LNG-IUS may not be a factor in inducing chromosomal damage, but it can promote cytotoxicity.