|
What
is it?
|
IUD stands
for Intrauterine Device. It is a T-shaped piece of plastic that
is often covered with copper wire. Some IUDs also contain hormones
or come in different shapes. The IUD sits inside the uterus. |
|
How
does it work?
|
The IUD prevents
pregnancy by not allowing a fertilized egg to attach itself
to the wall of the uterus. If a fertilized egg cannot attach
and grow, it is unable to develop into a fetus. |
|
How
do I use it?
|
Two appointments
are required for an IUD insertion, from your health care provider.
The first appointment will include information, an exam, and
laboratory screenings. The second appointment consists of inserting
the IUD and providing follow up instructions. The IUD is usually
inserted during your menstrual period. The IUD requires little
maintenance. There is a small nylon thread attached to it. You
must check to feel that it is still there after every period.
This way you know the IUD is still in the uterus. You do this
by inserting a washed finger high into the vagina where you
will feel the thread. |
|
Removal
of the IUD?
|
Most IUDs
are removed easily by a practitioner. Removal is best done during
a menstrual period but it can be removed at other times if necessary.
The IUD has a life span of 1-10 years depending on which type
of device is used. |
|
Who
has the best success with an IUD?
|
Women who:
* have had children but do not wish to have more
* have no history of pelvic infections
* have no history of sexually transmitted diseases
* have only one sexual partner |
|
Pros
|
The IUD is
effective immediately upon insertion. Allows spontaneous sex.
No mess. |
|
Cons
|
Heavier,
longer, crampier periods.
Possible spotting between
periods.
Possible increased risk
of vaginal infections and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
Can be expelled from
the body without you knowing it.
|
|
Effectiveness
|
Perfect-use
failure rate 1.5%
Typical failure rate 5% |
|
Side
Effects
|
Heavier periods
with more and worse cramps than before the IUD.
Higher risk of pelvic
inflammatory disease (PID), a severe STD that can lead to
infertility.
Spotting between periods.
|
|
IMPORTANT
|
The
IUD is not recommended for most young women and it is not a
recommended form of birth control for teenagers. The IUD can
be expelled from the uterus without a young woman knowing it,
leaving her unprotected. Also, since the uterus in a teenager
is still growing, it is not recommended. Most health care providers
are hesitant to give teenagers an IUD, for good reasons. An
IUD must be inserted into the uterus by a health care provider,
and is often easiest to insert during a young woman's period.
Plastic and copper IUDs need to be replaced about every 10 years.
IUDs with hormones must be replaced every year. |
