BACKGROUND: Concerns have been raised about the intrauterine contraceptive device IUDrelated vaginitis which some authors have described as a malodorous, homogenous, grey, thin and non purulent discharge which occurs in 20% of women using the IUD. Its significance and pathogenesis have not yet been fully understood and its etiology varies with geographical locations, family planning clinics and type of IUD used. One of the concerns raised is that IUDrelated vaginitis, when persistent is a documented reason for discontinuation by clients thereby negating efforts made to improve the unmet need for family planning. The objective of this study is to investigate the pattern of IUD-related vaginitis at the family planning clinic of University College Hospital Ibadan, South-western Nigeria- its presentation, etiology, the relationship between IUD-related vaginitis, duration of IUD use and socio-demographic characteristics. METHODOLOGY: A prospective study of a cohort of IUD users presenting with abnormal vaginal discharge at the family planning clinic of the University College Hospital, Ibadan was conducted between the 1st of May 2010 and the 30 th of June 2010. Patients were counseled on the purpose of the study and informed consent obtained. High vaginal and endocervical swabs of consenting clients were taken for microscopy, culture and sensitivity. Swabs for detection of Neisseria Gonorrhoea were transported using Amies transport medium in charcoal. Each sample collected underwent wet preparation, gram staining, microscopy and culture except for swabs built for detection of chlamydia. Detection of chlamydia was by immunohistochemistry using the QuickVue rapid chlamydia detection kit while diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis was made based on gram stained vaginal smear using the standard Nugents criteria. Other aetiological agents were identified either on wet preparation or culture using standard techniques. Treatment given was by the family planning nurse, as was the protocol at the family planning clinic. Data was collected using a proforma containing participant’s socio-demographic characteristics, parity, type of IUD used and duration of use, characteristics of vaginal discharge and number of unscheduled visits. Results of microbiological studies and treatment were listed in the data collection form and provided free of charge to the clients for their mangement. Data entry and analysis were done using SPSS 18 (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) software by generation of frequency tables, chisquare test, Fisher’s Exact tast and logistic regression model. The results were presented with the aid of tables and charts.