What is an IUD?
An IUD is a small, t-shaped device that is placed into the uterus to provide protection from unwanted pregnancy. An IUD is an extremely effective form of birth control. Once inserted, it is 99% effective at stopping pregnancy. Furthermore it can last for 3-12 years which makes IUD’s a convenient and easy birth control option for many women.
What are the benefits of an IUD?
IUDs have a number of benefits. This includes
- Being extremely easy to use. After insertion, no follow up appointment is required and no other action is needed. When a patient would like the IUD to be removed, this can be done easily by a medical practitioner
- IUDs can be removed at any time and pregnancy may happen quickly after. If you decide to remove the IUD for any reason, be assured that pregnancy can happen soon after.
- An IUD is one of the most effective forms of birth control. It is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. In the very few instances where an IUD has not worked this is because the IUD is pushed out of (expelled from) the uterus unnoticed.
- Less painful menstrual cramps and bleeding – The hormonal IUD can reduce cramping, bleeding and the pain of menstrual cramps.
IUD insertion and removal
An IUD insertion can be carried out at your doctor’s office or any sexual health clinic. The process usually takes about 15 minutes. However, prior to insertion, your provider will take a brief medical history. They may also carry out a pregnancy test to ensure that the IUD is not inserted while you are potentially pregnant.
Removal of the IUD can also be done at the doctor's office. As with insertion, this process takes about 15 minutes.
Types of IUDs
There are two types of IUDs available: Hormonal IUDs and copper IUDs.
Hormonal IUDs
In addition to preventing unwanted pregnancy, hormonal IUDs such as Mirena can also reduce heavy menstrual bleeding and cramps. If taken long enough, periods can stop all together.
Copper IUDs
There is only one brand of copper IUD in the U.S., the Paragard IUD which can last for up to 12 years. Copper IUDs are hormone free. This makes them a good option for women who prefer non-hormonal birth control, or those who can’t use methods with hormones because of medical reasons.
Who should use an IUD?
IUDs are an option for any woman looking for contraception. However, those who fall under one of the following categories may find a particular benefit to using an IUD versus other contraceptive choices
- Those looking for a long-term contraceptive option where pregnancy is not desired for a few years
- Those who have difficulty using other forms of contraception such as the pill or patch
What are the risks of using an IUD?
- Menstrual problems – The copper IUD may increase menstrual bleeding or cramps.
- Perforation – In 1 out of 1,000 women, the IUD will get stuck in or puncture (perforate) the uterus. Perforation is rare, but when it occurs, it’s almost always during insertion. The IUD should be removed if the uterus has been perforated.
- Expulsion – Sometimes, IUDs are pushed out (expelled) from the uterus into the vagina. This usually happens in the first few months of use. If you think your IUD has been expelled, use a backup birth control method until you can see a health care provider.
