Legacy Obstetrics & Gynecology

FACTS ABOUT THE IUD.

WHAT IS AN IUD?

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, plastic device that is inserted into the uterus (womb) to prevent pregnancy.

HOW DOES THE IUD WORK?

The ways an IUD can prevent pregnancy are not fully understood. The most recent studies suggest the IUD's work by preventing fertilization.

ARE THERE DIFFERENT KINDS OF IUD's?

There are two types of IUD's available in the United States: one contains copper and the other contains a hormone called progesterone. Both are shaped like the letter T and are 1 ?" inches tall. Each IUD has a thread or tail on the end, which allows the woman to check that the IUD is in place; it also makes it easier for the doctor to remove the IUD.
The copper IUD has copper sleeves on the arms and copper wire coiled around the stem. The copper IUD can be felt in place, and is effective, for up to eight years. The progesterone device has a hollow stem that contains the natural hormone progesterone, which is continuously released into the uterus and acts locally, so there are no hormonal effects throughout the body. This IUD must be replaced once a year.

HOW EFFECTIVE ARE IUD's?

IUD's have been found to be highly effective. For every 100 women using the copper IUD, less than 1 per ear will get pregnant. With the progesterone T, failure rates are approximately 3% per year.

ARE THERE SIDE EFFECTS?

With the copper IUD, the most common side effects are increased menstrual flow and cramps, which can be relieved by the use of an over-the-counter pain medication. These side effects lessen after the first few months as the uterus adapts to the presence of the IUD. Bleeding may also occur between menstrual periods with the progesterone IUD, although total blood loss and dysmenorrhea (painful periods) are reduced.

ARE IUD's SAFE?

IUD's are a safe and effective method of birth control when used appropriately. The insertion process may be linked with infection of the uterus or fallopian tubes in some woman at risk for infection.

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