IUD
What is an IUD?
IUD stands for Intrauterine Device. It’s a small, plastic, T–shaped object that is inserted through the cervix and placed in the uterus. A small string hangs down from the IUD into the upper part of the vagina (you can’t see the string). There are two types of IUDs: copper and hormonal.
| Hormonal IUD (Can be left in place for up to 5 years) | Perfect Use: 99.9% effective | Typical Use: 99.9% effective |
| Copper IUD (Can be left in place for up to 10 years) | Perfect Use: 99.4% effective | Typical Use: 99.2% effective |
How Does it Work?
IUDs prevent the sperm from fertilizing the egg. A copper IUD increases uterine fluid that contains copper ions, enzymes, and white blood cells that weaken sperm.
A hormonal IUD causes a thickening of cervical mucous which blocks sperm, decreases sperm survival and decreases growth of the uterine lining which is needed to support a pregnancy.
Important Considerations
- A woman needs to reach into her vagina and check the string after her period ends each month. Do NOT pull on the string; just make sure that the IUD is still in place.
- Getting an STD while using an IUD may increase your risk of having a serious pelvic infection, so its important to use a condom if a woman has multiple sexual partners.
Advantages:
- Very effective
- Requires no daily attention
- Immediately effective
- Allows sexual spontaneity
- Decreased risk of tubal pregnancy
Disadvantages:
- Must be inserted and removed by a medical professional
- Does not protect against STIs, HIV/AIDS
- May cause more difficult periods
- Cramping and pain for 15 minutes after insertion
- Can unexpectedly come out. Contact you doctor if this happens.
