The Department of Health (DH) has received five reports of breakage and expulsion of a batch of intra-uterine contraceptive device (IUCD) in the past 12 months and women using such devices will be contacted for follow-up.
As the contraceptive effect may be affected, DH and the Family Planning Association of Hong Kong (FPAHK) will contact the concerned women for checkups including the removal and replacement of IUCD if necessary.
A total of 1161 pieces of the IUCD, of model Copper T 380A and batch number FD 010201, had been used by DH's Family Health Services and FPAHK between 2001 and 2003.
The supplier of the affected device was Medico Techno Pte Ltd. of Singapore .
A DH spokesman said the replacement is a precautionary measure as there has not been any report of major side effect related to using the affected IUCD so far.
"In the past 12 months, FPAHK has reported a total of 5 cases of the device found broken and being partially or completely expelled from the uterus. No similar occurrence has been noted in DH's clients.
"Broken and expelled IUCD will obviously affect contraceptive effect. Women inserted with IUCD should immediately consult their doctors and take other contraceptive measures if the IUCDs are found expelled."
"Using IUCD is a very effective and safe method of contraception. It carries uncommon complications such as expulsion and pelvic infection. Women inserted with IUCD should immediately consult their doctors if they suspect to be pregnant, or have abnormal or severe abdominal pain, excessive menstrual flow or abnormal vaginal discharge ," he added.
The spokesman reminded women inserted with all models of IUCD to attend checkups regularly.
DH and FPAHK are taking steps to contact their clients for follow-up.
DH has set up telephone hotlines 2961 8839 and 2961 8740 to answer public enquiries on the matter. The hotlines will operate until 9 pm today and during office hours from tomorrow. The hotline of FPAHK is 2919 7725.