Treatment Overview
An IUD is a small, T-shaped plastic device that
is wrapped in copper or contains hormones. The IUD is inserted into your
by your doctor. A plastic string tied to the
end of the IUD hangs down through the
into the
. You can check that the IUD is in place by
feeling for this string. The string is also used by your doctor to remove the
IUD.
Types of IUDs
- Hormonal IUD. The hormonal IUD, such as Mirena, releases
levonorgestrel, which is a form of
the hormone . The hormonal IUD appears to be slightly more
effective at preventing pregnancy than the copper IUD. The hormonal IUD is
effective for at least 5 years.
- Copper IUD.
The most commonly used IUD is the copper IUD (such as Paragard). Copper wire is
wound around the stem of the T-shaped IUD. The copper IUD can stay in place for
at least 10 years and is a highly effective form of contraception.
How it works
Both types of IUD prevent
fertilization of the egg by damaging or killing sperm. The IUD also affects the
uterine lining (where a fertilized egg would implant and grow).
- Hormonal IUD. This IUD
prevents fertilization by damaging or killing sperm and making the mucus in the
cervix thick and sticky, so sperm can't get through to the uterus. It also
keeps the lining of the uterus (endometrium) from growing very thick.1 This makes the lining a poor place for a fertilized egg to
implant and grow. The hormones in this IUD also reduce menstrual bleeding
and cramping.
- Copper IUD. Copper is toxic
to sperm. It makes the uterus and fallopian tubes produce fluid that kills
sperm. This fluid contains
, copper ions, enzymes, and
.1
Insertion
You can have an IUD inserted at any
time, as long as you are not pregnant. An IUD is inserted into your uterus by
your doctor. The
insertion procedure takes only a few minutes and can
be done in a doctor's office. Sometimes a
is injected into the area around the
cervix, but this is not always needed.
IUD insertion is easiest in
women who have had a vaginal childbirth in the past.
Your doctor
may have you feel for the IUD string right after insertion, to be sure you know
what it feels like. You may be given antibiotics to prevent infection.