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The Intrauterine Device IUD IUD Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are small, flexible devices made of metal and/or plastic that prevent pregnancy when inserted into a woman's uterus through her vagina. Nearly 15 percent of women of reproductive age-approximately 160 million women-currently use IUDs. Much of their popularity stems from their effectiveness combined with their long duration. The most widely used IUDs are copper-bearing IUDs while inert (unmedicated) and progestin-releasing IUDs (levonorgestrel or progesterone) are less widely available. |  | ||
| There are two types of IUDs available, which are both available at Women's Health Services--ParaGard and Mirena. The ParaGard has a tiny copper wire wrapped around the plastic body and should not be used by anyone who is allergic to copper. The Mirena releases small amounts of a synthetic progesterone hormone. This was added to attempt to decrease the excessive bleeding and cramping that some women have with the IUD. | |||
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& effective UDs are a safe and effective method of reversible, long-term contraception for most women. They do not affect breastfeeding, interfere with intercourse, or have hormonal side effects; only some gynecologic and obstetric conditions and infections preclude use of the method. One drawback of IUDs is their tendency to cause heavy menstrual bleeding. Unless otherwise stated, the following information applies to copper IUDs. The IUD is one of the most commonly used methods of fertility regulation, especially in developing countries. It is a safe and effective method for women who are in a monogamous sexual relationship and not at risk of sexually transmitted infections . The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than 150 million women use IUDs. |
| IUDs
and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease The most definitive review of IUD safety, particularly regarding Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), is the WHO's review of 12 studies involving nearly 23,000 IUD users around the world. That study found that, overall, the rate of PID among IUD users was very low; the PID rate was highest during the first 20 days after insertion and was low and stable after that, even among users who had an IUD in place for eight years or more. PID among IUD users was found to be most strongly related to the insertion process rather than the IUD. |
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being frank with your healthcare provider, the two of you can work together to
determine the birth control
and disease prevention methods that best suits your health, your preferences and
your lifestyle. For more information, click on the hormonal and barrier click on the links below. |
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