INTRODUCTION

An IUD is a small T-shaped plastic and copper device that is put into your uterus (womb) by a
specially trained doctor or nurse. It has one or two thin threads on the end that hang through your
cervix (the entrance to the uterus) into the top of your vagina. An IUD is sometimes called a ‘coil’ or
‘copper coil’ and it works by stopping the sperm and egg from surviving in the womb or fallopian tubes
and may also prevent a fertilized egg from implanting in the womb. The IUD is a method of long-acting
reversible contraception (LARC). It means that once it's in place, you don't have to think about it each
day or each time you have sex.

The concept of the IUD (Intrauterine device) as a method to prevent unplanned pregnancies has
been around for a century. IUD technology has advanced significantly since they were first introduced to
Americans in the 1920s, but the perception of other devices, such as the 1970’s Dalkon Shield, leaves
many women with outdated views about their safety and effectiveness. More recent IUDs have an
improved design that is a safer and more effective form of birth control compared to older models. IUDs
may be a good option for women looking for a long-term, alternative form of contraception. But before
deciding if this option is right for you, it is important to understand the different types of IUDs, how they
work, and the risks and benefits involved.

The IUD is the most common form of reversible birth control in the world, used by about 100
million women. Although only 6% of reproductive-age women in the United States use IUDs, this
number is quickly growing.[1], [2] In fact, it is the number one form of birth control used by
gynecologists in the U.S. for their own birth control needs.

HOW AN IUD WORKS?

IUDs work to prevent pregnancy by several different mechanisms and does not cause abortions.
Rather, an IUD prevents pregnancy from occurring the first place.  Both types of IUDs physically interfere
with sperm so it cannot reach the egg for fertilization.

The IUD is similar to the IUS (intrauterine system) but works in a different way. Instead of
releasing the hormone progestogen like the IUS, the IUD releases copper. Copper changes the make-up
of the fluids in the womb and fallopian tubes, stopping sperm surviving there. The progestogen thickens
a woman’s cervical mucus and causes it to become sticky. If ovulation occurs and an egg is released,
these changes help prevent pregnancy because 1) the thickened cervical wall blocks sperm from
travelling to the site of fertilization and 2) the sticky uterine lining is a poor environment for an egg to
implant and grow.

WHO CAN GET AN IUD?

Most people with a uterus can use an IUD, including those who’ve never been pregnant, young
people, and people who are HIV positive. Your doctor or nurse will need to ask you about your medical
history to check if the IUD is suitable for you. Do mention any illnesses or operations you’ve had as you
may require specialist care when the IUD is fitted. Some conditions which may mean you shouldn’t use
an IUD are that you:
O think you might already be pregnant

O have an untreated sexually transmitted infection or pelvic infection

O have problems with your uterus or cervix

O have unexplained bleeding from your vagina (for example, between periods or after sex).

WHERE CAN I GET AN IUD?

You can go to a contraception or sexual health clinic or to a doctor or nurse at a general

practice. An IUD can only be fitted by a trained doctor or nurse so not all doctors and practice nurses will
be able to fit IUDs. It may not always be possible to fit the IUD at your first visit, you may need a follow
up appointment.

WHEN CAN I START USING NA IUD?

An IUD can be put in at any time in your menstrual cycle, if it’s certain you’re not pregnant. It’s
effective immediately. It can also be used as emergency contraception

HOW EFFECTIVE IS AN IUD?

How effective any contraceptive is depends on how old you are, how often you have sex and
whether you follow the instructions. The IUD is a method of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC).
LARC is very effective because it doesn’t depend on you remembering to take or use it. The IUD is over
99% effective. Less than 1 IUD user in 100 will get pregnant in 1 year. When the IUD is used for 5 years,
fewer than 2 IUD users in 100 will get pregnant over 5 years. If 100 sexually active women don’t use any
contraception 80 to 90 will get pregnant in a year.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF AN IUD?

O It works as soon as it’s put in.

O It works for 5 or 10 years, depending on type.

O It can be used if you’re breastfeeding. O It’s not affected by other medicines.

O Your fertility returns to normal as soon as the IUD is taken out.

WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES?

O Your periods may be heavier, longer or more painful. This may improve after a few months.

O You’ll need an internal examination when the IUD is fitted.

O The IUD doesn’t protect you from sexually transmitted infections, so you may need to use condoms as
well.
O The IUD doesn’t increase your risk of infection, but if you get an infection when an IUD is in place this
could lead to a pelvic infection if it isn’t treated.

BOTTOM LINE

Overall, the IUD is an extremely effective and safe form of birth control for most women. It is cost-
effective and requires very little thought after insertion. If you’re interested in getting an IUD, talk to
your physician about your options!