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Intrauterine Device (IUD) for Birth Control
The
intrauterine device (IUD) 
is a long-term
birth control method. Unlike IUDs that were used in
the 1970s, present-day IUDs are small, safe, and highly effective.1
An IUD is a small, T-shaped plastic device that is wrapped in copper or contains hormones. The IUD is inserted into your uterus by your doctor. A plastic string tied to the end of the IUD hangs down through the cervix into the vagina. 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
- Levonorgestrel (LNg) IUD. The levonorgestrel (LNg) IUD, also known as Mirena, releases levonorgestrel, which is a form of progestin. The LNg IUD appears to be slightly more effective at preventing pregnancy than the copper IUD. Also, unlike other IUDs, it may reduce the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). The LNg 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).
- LNg 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 the LNg 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 white blood cells, copper ions, enzymes, and prostaglandins.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 local anesthetic 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.
| Author: | Bets Davis, MFA | Last Updated: May 22, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology | |
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