Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)                                                                                                                            
      

Type
Copper
Progestin (hormonal)

Brands*
Mirena (the latest IUD to hit the market)
ParaGard
Progestasert

*Trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

What is it?
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small T-shaped piece of plastic that contains either copper or Progestin.

How does it work?
The IUD is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare professional.  It works primarily by impeding the movement of egg and sperm, affects the lining of the uterus, and stops fertilization.

How do I use it?
IUD is inserted by a healthcare professional.  You must check the attached string monthly to make sure that the IUD is in place.

How reliable is it?
The copper IUD is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.  The Progestin IUD is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

*Unfortunately, years of negative publicity brought on by a faulty IUD - the Daikon Shield - raised many questions about the safety of all IUDs.  Some manufacturers even withdrew safe IUDs from the market. But the IUD is still recognized by the World Health Organization, the American Medical Association, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists as one of the safest and most effective reversible methods of birth control for women.

Are there any hormones involved?
Yes, only for Progestin IUD.

Does this type of contraceptive offer protection from STI/STDs?
No

What are the advantages?
There is nothing to do before, during, or after sex - allows for spontaneity.  It is cost effective, highly effective, long-acting (1, 5, or 10 years) and reversible with a high degree of user satisfaction.  Also, it does not require a daily regimen. Some women experience a reduction in cramping or may stop having a period, which some find beneficial. Additionally, IUDs are the most cost-effective contraceptive method when used for at least two years.

What are the disadvantages?
IUDs may cause irregular bleeding, no period, or a painful, heavier period with cramps.   Progestin-releasing IUDs may cause mood swings, acne, headache, breast tenderness and nausea. IUDs do not protect against STIs.

Are there any side effects or health risks that I should discuss with my healthcare provider?
The copper IUD should not be used if one is allergic to copper.

Where do I get it?
Prescription and Clinic Visit required.

How often do I need to use it?
Once inserted, copper IUDs are effective for 10 years and Proestin-releasing IUDs are effective for 5 years.

Additional Information:

Reversibility

• Once a nonhormonal IUD is removed, fertility can return within about 1 month.
• With removal of a hormonal IUD, fertility may take up to 1 year.

• If you are pregnant or suspect you are pregnant
• If you have pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or a history of PID
• If you have Wilson's disease or copper allergies
• If you or your partner have multiple sex partners
• If you have an abnormally shaped uterus
• If you have cancer of the cervix or uterus or have an abnormal Pap smear
• If you have any vaginal bleeding without a known reason
• If you have a condition that would make you more susceptible to infection during insertion of an IUD. These conditions include, but are not limited to, leukemia and acquired immunodeficiency disease syndrome (AIDS)
• If you have an untreated infection of the cervix or uterus, including an infection called bacterial vaginosis, until the infection is controlled
• If you have an infection called genital actinomycosis
• If you have a previously inserted IUD that has not been removed yet
• When using a progestin-releasing IUD, if you have or suspect you have cancer of the breast
• When using a progestin-releasing IUD, if you have a history of ectopic (tubal) pregnancy or a condition that would make you more susceptible to an ectopic pregnancy