The authors studied 60 females using either IUDs or oral contraceptives (OCs). Hemoglobin, serum iron, total iron binding capacity, and saturation of transferrin were determined before and 4 and 10 months after starting a responsible paternity program. Women with a basal hemoglobin level below 12 g/dl were excluded. Age, parity, and hematologic parameters were similar for both groups. A significant decrease in hemoglobin level and saturation of transferrin was observed at 10 months in IUD users (13.6-13.1 g/dl and 36.2 and 26.9%, respectively). Use of OCs was not associated with hemoglobin decrease but a significant rise in saturation of transferrin was observed (36.2-43.9%, p<0.05). (author's) (summary in ENG