Intrauterine Device: A Long-Acting Reversible Contraception
If you are looking for a reliable, convenient, and long-lasting way to prevent pregnancy, you may want to consider an intrauterine device (IUD). An IUD is a small, T-shaped device that a healthcare provider inserts into your uterus. It can stay there for up to 10 years, depending on the type, and you can have it removed at any time if you change your mind.
There are two kinds of IUDs: copper IUDs and hormonal IUDs. Both have plastic frames that hold them in place inside your uterus. They also have strings attached at the bottom that extend into your vagina so that your provider can remove them as needed.
How do IUDs work?
IUDs work by preventing fertilisation, which is when a sperm meets an egg. Copper IUDs release copper ions, which are toxic to sperm. They also cause the uterus and fallopian tubes to produce a fluid that contains white blood cells, copper ions, enzymes, and prostaglandins, which are also toxic to sperm.
Hormonal IUDs release a synthetic hormone called levonorgestrel, which is similar to the natural hormone progesterone. Levonorgestrel thickens the cervical mucus, which makes it harder for sperm to reach the fallopian tubes. It may also prevent ovulation, which is when an egg is released from the ovaries.
How effective are IUDs?
IUDs are one of the most effective forms of birth control available. According to the NHS, copper IUDs have a failure rate of about 0.8% and hormonal IUDs have a failure rate of about 0.2% in the first year of use. This means that less than one out of 100 women who use an IUD will get pregnant in a year.
In comparison, other methods of birth control have higher failure rates. For example, male condoms have a failure rate of about 15%, birth control pills have a failure rate of about 9% and male sterilisation has a failure rate of about 0.15% in the first year of use.
What are the benefits of IUDs?
Some of the benefits of using an IUD are:
- You don't have to remember to take a pill every day or use a condom every time you have sex.
- You can have sex anytime you want without worrying about getting pregnant.
- You can keep your fertility as soon as you have your IUD removed.
- You can use an IUD for up to 10 years, depending on the type.
- You can use an IUD with condoms to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- You can use a copper IUD as emergency contraception within five days of unprotected sex.
- You may experience lighter or shorter periods or no periods at all with a hormonal IUD.
What are the drawbacks of IUDs?
Some of the drawbacks of using an IUD are:
- You may experience some pain or discomfort when your provider inserts or removes your IUD.
- You may have some spotting or bleeding between periods for the first few months after getting an IUD.
- You may have heavier or longer periods or more cramps with a copper IUD.
- You may have hormonal side effects such as acne, headaches, breast tenderness, or mood changes with a hormonal IUD.
- You may have a higher risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) if you get an STI while using an IUD.
- You may have a rare chance of your IUD expelling (coming out) or perforating (puncturing) your uterus.
How do I get an IUD?
If you are interested in getting an IUD, you should talk to your healthcare provider about your medical history, your preferences, and your expectations. Your provider will examine your uterus and cervix and perform some tests to make sure you don't have any infections or conditions that could affect your suitability for an IUD.
If you are eligible for an IUD, your provider will insert it into your uterus through your vagina using a speculum and a thin tube. The insertion process usually takes a few minutes and may cause some cramping or bleeding. Your provider will give you some aftercare instructions and schedule a follow-up visit to check on your IUD.
You should avoid having sex for at least 24 hours after getting an IUD and use another method of birth control for at least seven days if you get a hormonal IUD. You should also check your strings regularly to make sure your IUD is still in place.
Conclusion
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a long-acting reversible contraception that can prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years. There are two types of IUDs: copper and hormonal. Both work by preventing fertilisation, but they have different mechanisms, benefits, and drawbacks. You should consult your healthcare provider to find out if an IUD is right for you and how to get one.
Sources
[Intrauterine Device (IUD): Birth Control, Use & Side Effects]
(https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24441-intrauterine-device-iud)
[Intrauterine device - Wikipedia]
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intrauterine_device)
[Intrauterine device (IUD) - NHS]