OBJECTIVE To identify the characteristics of an international population of women using the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) and their experiences with this contraceptive. METHODS Women who had used the LNG-IUS for six months or more completed a standardised questionnaire on reasons for use, user satisfaction and other aspects. RESULTS A total of 8680 questionnaires were completed by survey participants in 18 countries across Europe and the Near East. The average woman using the LNG-IUS was 38 years old, was married or lived with her partner, and had two children. Overall, 95% of patients were satisfied with the LNG-IUS; the percentage rose to 99% among those using their second LNG-IUS. Reasons mentioned for using the LNG-IUS included the need for contraception (68%), its high efficacy (59%) and the shorter/lighter menstrual bleeding (55%). Of the women with prior bleeding problems, 93% reported an improvement in their symptoms with the LNG-IUS. Participants also rated the reliability, tolerability and convenience of the method highly. CONCLUSIONS This survey provides insight into the profiles of LNG-IUS users. High levels of satisfaction with this method of contraception were reported by both first and second-time users. Our data suggest that the LNG-IUS is well accepted and that it provides considerable benefits beyond contraception alone.