Intrauterine Device (IUD)

Long-term contraception that is attached to the uterus and can be removed when ready to have children

What is it?

An IUD (intrauterine device) is a long-acting reversible contraceptive made of small, flexible plastic device wrapped in copper that provides up to ten years of protection against pregnancy. Inserted into the uterus by a doctor or healthcare provider, it is made of high-quality materials, ensuring its safety for long-term use. If you decide to get pregnant, the IUD can be removed at any time, with fertility returning immediately after removal.

How does it work?

You can have an IUD inserted at any time, as long as you are not pregnant. Most healthcare providers prefer to insert the IUD during your period when the cervix (the opening to your uterus) is most open, which can make the procedure more comfortable for you.

After inserting the IUD, your healthcare provider will trim the strings, leaving enough length to allow for future removal and for you to check if the IUD is in place.

How effective is the method?

IUD is 99% effective, meaning only 1 out of 100 women might get pregnant in a year.

Pros

Once inserted, there is no need to manage it daily or during sexual activity.
Fertility quickly returns to normal after the IUD is removed.
Can last up to 10 years

Cons

Insertion can cause cramping or discomfort, especially for those with a sensitive cervix.
Do not protect against sexually transmitted infections; additional protection like condoms is needed

Postpartum IUD

A postpartum IUD can be inserted immediately by a doctor or midwife after giving birth. This option is convenient because it provides immediate, long-term contraception without needing to schedule a separate appointment later. Once the IUD is inserted, you won’t have to worry about contraception for several years.

IUD as emergency contraception

Getting an IUD within 5 days of unprotected sex reduces your chances of pregnancy by over 99.9%, making it the most effective emergency contraception available. Its effectiveness is not affected by weight. Using an IUD as emergency contraception is highly convenient for women and girls considering a long-acting reversible contraceptive method. It provides effective contraception for up to 10 years. After being inserted for emergency contraception, it can continue to be used as a regular contraceptive method until it needs replacement, you decide to have it removed, or you choose to switch methods.

IUDs are designed to be unobtrusive and do not interfere with sexual activity. You’ll barely notice it’s there, allowing you to enjoy intimacy without the need for additional contraceptive measures. This makes the postpartum IUD an excellent choice for new mothers seeking reliable and low-maintenance birth control.

Sources

Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Do the benefits of IUDs outweigh the potential side effects?
Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials. Retrieved August 22, 2024, from

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/do-the-benefits-of-iuds-outweigh-the-potential-side-effects

This is not an advertisement. The contents of this page are for information purposes only. They are not intended to diagnose and/or treat any medical condition and should not be interpreted as substitutes for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor or health care provider before taking any prescription medicines found on this page.

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