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Intrauterine Device-IUD

Written by Jane Carrasco

 woman

 

IUD 

 

 

 

The answer might be a continuous birth control with no hormone side effects.

 

An IUD, Intrauterine Device, works in a different way from other birth controls by making the uterus toxic to sperm and by disturbing the lining of the uterus so that it won't allow egg implantation.
 
 
The IUD is one of the most effective kinds of birth control available and unlike the Pill (and patch, ring, and shots), it doesn't contain any hormones. It is a small object that is inserted by a physician through the cervix and placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. A small string hangs down from the IUD into the upper part of the vagina.  It is not noticeable during intercourse.
 
 
There are two types of IUDs available: ParaGard and Mirena.
 

Paragard

Paragard Intrauterine Contraceptive (IUC), or Copper T, is a tiny copper wire wrapped around the plastic flexible body and should not be used by anyone who is allergic to copper. A short mono filament thread is attached to the stem of the IUD and aids in locating or removing the device. The IUD copper wrapped around the device also enhances the birth control effectiveness. It is also virtually hassle-free and it's hormone-free, reducing the risk of side effects. No more daily or weekly routines, just a simple monthly self-check. Some women may have heavier or longer periods, or spotting between periods which usually subsides after 2-3 months and can suffer from complications from placement.


Over 70 million women worldwide have chosen an IUC as their birth control method, making it the most widely used form of reversible contraception in the world. You must consult with a physician to discuss the benefits and risks. You must not use ParaGard if you have a history of certain reproductive cancers or infections, have pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), have Wilson's disease, or might be pregnant. A short mono filament thread is attached to the stem of the IUD and aids in locating or removing the device. The IUD copper wrapped around the device also enhances the birth control effectiveness.
 
 
mirena

Mirena Intrauterine Contraceptive (IUC) is a tiny T-shaped piece of plastic that is placed into the uterus by your health care professional that slowly release small amounts of hormones into your uterus. The hormone, levonorgestrel was added to attempt to decrease the bleeding and cramping that some women have with the IUD. It does not contain estrogen, so you can be free of estrogen-related side effects. The device can remain in place for up to five years.

 

 

 

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Three different actions may work together to prevent pregnancy:

 

# Block sperm from reaching or fertilizing your egg
# Thinning of menstrual lining (this may result in less menstrual bleeding over time)
# Stop the ovary from releasing an egg (but this is not the way it works in most cases)



Consult with your doctor to find out if Mirena is a safe option for you.



Some women report discomfort and cramping during and after IUD insertion. The insertion process can potentially introduce bacteria into the uterus and could experience a pelvic infection within the first three weeks of placement.

 

Although most of the risk of infection with IUDs occurs at the time of insertion, many care providers continue to weigh risk of infection in their patients. Mutually monogamous relationships are the best defense against infection. IUD's do not protect you from HIV/AIDS or STD's.



Tips For Maintaining Protection With An IUD:



# Check every few days for the first few weeks after an IUD insertion, after your first period since time of insertion to make sure that it is still properly in place and each month after that.
# Follow up with recommended physician exams.
# Check your pads and tampons during your period to make sure that the IUD has not fallen out.
# If you cannot feel the strings, make sure to use an alternative birth control and schedule an appointment with your physician.

 

 

 

Disclaimer
The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. The content provided is intended strictly for informational purposes to help patient understanding of medical terms and conditions.
 

 

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