IUD

Overview

Long-term, reliable birth control that you can place once and rely on for years. Today's intrauterine device (IUD) offers long-term birth control that you can count on and largely forget about once it is placed. At Minerva Women's Healthcare, we can help you decide whether an IUD is right for you. If you are looking for a safe, effective and hassle-free way to prevent pregnancy, schedule a visit today. Call our office or book an appointment online.

At a glance

An IUD is a small, T-shaped device placed in the uterus by a doctor to prevent pregnancy.
It is one of the most effective forms of birth control, with a failure rate of less than 1 in 100.
There are two types: hormonal IUDs and copper IUDs.
It lasts for years, and you can have it removed at any time if you want to become pregnant or change method.
It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so condoms are still advised if you are at risk.

What is an IUD?

An IUD is a small, T-shaped plastic device that sits inside the uterus. It is about the size of a coin and can prevent pregnancy for several years. It is easily removed by a doctor when you decide to have a child, and fertility generally returns quickly after removal.

How do the two types work?

Hormonal IUD: This type releases a small amount of progestin each day. It prevents pregnancy by thickening the mucus in your cervix, so sperm cannot reach an egg, and by thinning the lining of the womb. It may also reduce ovulation in some women. Depending on the type, it lasts for up to three to eight years and then must be removed and replaced if you want to continue.

Copper IUD: This type is wrapped in copper, which creates an environment that is toxic to sperm. This prevents sperm from fertilising an egg. It contains no hormones and can last for 10 years or more before it needs replacing. It can also be used as emergency contraception if placed within five days of unprotected sex.

Hormonal IUDs may also help to lighten heavy periods and ease period pain, so your doctor may recommend them for these reasons too.

Is an IUD safe and effective?

IUDs are considered safe and very effective. They are most reliable when they are placed and monitored by a qualified doctor or nurse. Since there is nothing to remember, they work better in everyday life than methods such as the pill.

Who can use an IUD?

Most women can use an IUD, including women who have not had children. An IUD may not be suitable if you are pregnant, have an untreated pelvic infection, have certain abnormalities of the uterus, or have unexplained vaginal bleeding. Your doctor will check your medical history and advise you.

What are the possible side effects?

Like all forms of birth control, IUDs can have side effects, but most women have no problems. Hormonal IUDs may cause:

Acne
Headaches
Breast tenderness
Changes in the length and frequency of your periods, including lighter periods or no periods
Spotting in the first few months

The copper IUD may cause:

Heavier periods than normal
Longer periods
Cramps or backache outside your periods

Serious problems are uncommon, but can include the IUD moving out of position, falling out, or, rarely, infection or the device passing through the wall of the uterus. If you develop significant side effects, your doctor can easily remove the device and switch you to another method.

What happens during insertion?

Insertion is done in the clinic and usually takes only a few minutes. Your doctor checks your pelvis, passes the IUD through the cervix using a thin tube, and trims the strings. You may feel cramping or discomfort during and after insertion, and we can advise on pain relief. Some spotting or cramping for a few days is common. We usually advise a check-up a few weeks later to confirm it is in position.

When should I contact you?

Contact us promptly if you have severe or worsening pelvic pain, fever, heavy bleeding, unusual discharge, a missed period, or if you cannot feel the strings or think the IUD has moved.

Common questions

Does an IUD hurt?

Many women feel cramping during insertion, which settles quickly. Ask us about pain relief.

Will an IUD affect my future fertility?

No. Fertility generally returns soon after removal.

Can I use an IUD if I have never had a baby?

Yes, in most cases.

Can I feel the IUD?

You should not feel it. The thin strings sit in the vagina, and we will show you how to check them if you wish.

Ready to discuss an IUD?

Schedule a visit with Minerva Women's Healthcare to talk about IUDs and other birth control options. Call our office or book online. It takes about a minute, and no account is needed.

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