The IUD (intra-uterine device) is a small flexible plastic or plastic and copper device that is placed inside the uterus to provide continuous birth control for five to ten years. It is one of the most effective and safest methods of birth control available and is 98-99% effective. It works by preventing fertilization or implantation.
At this time there are two kinds of IUDs available:
- ParaGard, a copper-bearing IUD, may be used for up to ten years
- Mirena, an IUD containing a hormone (progestin), is good for up to five years.
How to decide if an IUD is a good choice for you:
- If you have already had children and are in a steady relationship with one partner, then the copper IUD is an excellent birth control method for you.
- If you can't use a hormonal method of birth control (the pill, the patch, the ring, or the shot), If you are at high risk of getting a sexually transmitted disease, then you should not consider using an IUD.
Please learn more about IUD's by choosing any of the questions below.
How effective is the IUD?
The IUD has a failure rate of less than 1%. It is effective immediately after insertion.
How do I get an IUD?
The IUD must be inserted by a trained health care professional after performing certain lab tests. The insertion takes about fifteen minutes and can cause some cramping that lasts a short time. There is a slight risk of perforation of the uterus during the insertion.
Sometimes a follow-up visit is recommended, especially if menstrual periods become extremely heavy. The risk of infection is highest for the first several months after insertion, so be sure to report any severe abdominal pain accompanied by fever or an abnormal vaginal discharge
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the IUD?
Advantages:
- Nothing to put in place before sex
- No pill to take daily
- Ability to become pregnant returns quickly when IUD is removed
- ParaGard may be left in place up to 10 yrs
- Mirena may be left in place up to 5 yrs
- Mirena contains hormones which may reduce or stop period cramps and bleeding
- Both can be used while breastfeeding
- Both available at the Health Center
Disadvantages and side effects:
- ParaGard may cause increase in cramps and heavier, longer periods
- Mirena may cause lighter or fewer periods
- Spotting often between periods
- Rarely, uterus can be injured during placement
- Spontaneous expulsion of the IUD
- Perforation or embedding of the IUD in the uterine wall
- Greater risk of ectopic pregnancy if you become pregnant while on the IUD
What are the warning signs of problems with the IUD?
Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms. Remember the word "PAINS." Each letter stands for a word associated with a problem:
- Period is late with a copper IUD, or you have abnormal spotting or severe bleeding
- Abdominal pain, severe cramping, or abdominal pain with sexual intercourse
- Infection with or exposure to a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or symptoms of a vaginal infection, such as abnormal vaginal discharge
- Not feeling well or having a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
- Strings from IUD are missing or are longer or shorter than normal
SPECIAL NOTES
The IUD does not protect you against STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). Use condoms and spermicide along with the IUD to prevent transmission of HIV and other STDs. Although rare, pregnancies that occur while an IUD is inserted are more likely to be ectopic. It’s important to be aware of other signs of pregnancy such as nausea, breast tenderness, and excessive fatigue. Have a pregnancy test promptly if you suspect you could be pregnant. Always inform health care providers that you have an IUD. This is especially important if you are prescribed other medications, if you are hospitalized, or if you are being treated for a medical problem.