IUDs are the most effective birth control method. Unfortunately, some women are afraid to use the IUD because of incorrect things they have heard from friends or in the newspaper. Here are the answers to some of the most common questions I get about the IUD.
What is an IUD?
IUD stands for Intrauterine Device. It is a small device in the shape of a “T” that is placed in the uterus during an office visit. There are two kinds of IUD.
• The Copper IUD has no hormones but instead uses copper to stop a pregnancy from occurring. It can stay in for 10 years.
• The Mirena IUD releases the hormone levonorgestrel (same as in some birth control pills) into the uterus to stop pregnancy from occurring. It can stay in for 5 years.
How does the IUD stop pregnancy?
IUDs may work in more than one way. Studies suggest that IUDs interfere with the sperm’s ability to reach the egg.
How well do IUDs work?
IUDs are as good at preventing pregnancy as getting your tubes tied. If 100 women use the IUD for one year, only 1 woman will get pregnant. Unlike getting your tubes tied, you can still get pregnant after using an IUD.
What are the side effects of IUDs?
The copper IUD may cause some women to have more bleeding during and between their periods. It may also cause some more cramping in the first few months that you use it.
The Mirena IUD also causes some irregular bleeding during the first few months of use. After that, many women have very light bleeding or no bleeding at all.
Does the IUD cause serious infection?
No. If you have an infection like gonorrhea or Chlamydia when the IUD is put in, you may be at increased risk for infection during the first month that you are using it. This is why your doctor may want to screen you for infection before placing the IUD. After that, your risk is similar to that of the general population.
Will the IUD make me sterile?
No. Most women who have their IUD removed are able to get pregnant quickly if they don’t start another birth control.
Can I still get an IUD even if I haven’t given birth before?
Yes. Even women who have never been pregnant or given birth can safely have an IUD.
by: Angela Dempsey, M.D.
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