The IUD is a form of birth control that is largely used.
It is designed in a T shape and is a flexible plastic.
Less than 1.5 inches in length.
Can be removed at any time by your medical provider.
It can contain either copper or progesterone.
Inserted into the Uterus, it acts to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg and result in the sperm being ineffective.
It is an extremely good option for women as it lasts for a long time, can be easily removed, and it is very safe.
It is long acting and is meant to remain within the woman for a few years.
There are approximately 150+ million woman currently with IUD – worldwide.
Types:
1.) Non-hormonal Copper IUD
2.) Hormonal IUD
*** – In the United Kingdom – there are over ten different types of copper IUD.
Copper IUD
– Also known as ParaGard
– The main goal of this IUD is to disrupt the sperm mobility by damaging it.
– This prevents the sperm from reaching the egg and thus combining with it.
– Copper is a natural spermicide within the uterus.
– The sperm looses motility and viability (length of survival)
– First year failure rate are less than 2.5%.
– Can be used during breastfeeding – due to the fact there are no hormones.
– Heavier menstrual periods and increase menstrual periods can be seen.
– This type of IUD can last 10 years.
Hormonal IUD
– Brand name of Mirena
– Decreased risk for bleeding during menstrual periods.
– Prevention of menstrual period can be seen.
– Can also be used for heavy bleeding (menorrhagia) along with birth control.
– This IUD can disrupt sperm as well as help prevent egg implantation.
– Releases hormone Levonorgestrel which is a form of hormone progestin.
– May be slightly more effective than Copper IUD in preventing pregnancy.
– Can last as long as you want…up to 5 years
– Avoid use if you are susceptible to pelvic infections, kidney infections, or urinary tract infections.
Other Information
Please keep it in mind that an IUD won’t protect you against STD’s (Sexually Transmitted Diseases).
The IUD shouldn’t prevent future problems with getting pregnant.
Typically, a women’s fertility will be the same as it was before the IUD was implanted.
An IUD can be placed approximately 6 weeks after previous delivery.
When the Copper IUD is placed – immediate effectiveness of the contraception is seen.
When the Mirena is placed – use back-up protection for 7 days.
Self Checking to see if IUD is still in place
It often becomes a concern for a women that their IUD is no longer in place.
A self check can be done.
First thing is to wash your hands.
There are three main positions to check the IUD.
1.) Squat with your legs tilted outward
2.) Sit on toilet with legs tilted outward
3.) Place one leg up on a chair
Place your finger into the vaginal opening and search for the Cervix.
You should feel a string at the opening of the cervix.
Don’t pull the string too hard.
***If you can’t find the string or if you feel the device itself – call your health care provider and schedule an appointment.
An Ultrasound may be done to locate the device.
The following are 5 important questions about Intrauterine Device – IUD’s. This type of contraception is used by millions of women. Initial questions are usually easy to find. These questions really help understand what we can expect and it helps answers concerns we might have.
1.) What kinds of IUD or Intrauterine Devices are there?
2 main types.
1.) Non-hormonal Copper IUD (ParaGard)
2.) Hormonal IUD (Mirena)
Copper IUD is a copper wire that wraps around the T shape device.
Hormonal IUD releases a hormone Levonorgestrel. The Copper IUD is good for 10 years while the Hormonal IUD is good for 5 years.
2.) Can an IUD be used during breastfeeding?
Yes. Neither will result in side effects or are harmful to the infant. The quality or quantity of the breast milk is not affected.
3.) Should I use another form of contraception during the first month of an IUD?
For the copper IUD – it is effective the moment it is placed. In some cases, it can be effective within the first 5 days after intercourse. This would be considered as Emergency Contraceptive and would be more effective than oral pills.
For the Hormonal IUD – Immediately effective if placed within 7 days after you started your period. Otherwise, used alternative contraception for the first 7 days.
4.) Will an IUD affect my period?
Copper IUD – may cause irregular menstrual periods. Your periods might become heavier and last longer than you are used to. Cramping can be seen. Complete absence of a period is unlikely.
Hormonal IUD – Irregular menstrual periods are possible. Decrease in duration and intensity of your period is often seen. You may experience less cramping. Complete absence of a period is likely but doesn’t occur in all cases.
*** Sometimes heavy menstrual periods or very painful menstrual periods are the primary reasons to get a hormonal IUD.
5.) Can I get pregnant while I have an IUD
Yes. Although this rarely happens. It is possible. If you think that you could be, meet with your provider immediately.
They may want to ensure you don’t have an ectopic pregnancy. Ultrasound, exam, blood work, and other evaluations may occur.
If you have a normal pregnancy – you can than choose whether to continue the pregnancy.
If you choose to continue with the pregnancy – the IUD will be removed immediately. If you keep the IUD during pregnancy – you will risk your health and your baby’s health.
There is a risk of miscarriage when removing the IUD.
If the IUD can’t be removed – you will be monitored closely during pregnancy.
Learn more specifics about the IUD or Intrauterine Device – Here
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