The IUD is a small T-shaped piece of plastic that has wires hanging from the tail of the T. It must be installed in the uterus by a doctor. There are two kinds of IUD’s.
The first one, the hormonal IUD, is equipped with a small canister that contains the hormone progesterone. Unlike many other hormonal birth control methods, the IUD doesn’t contain estrogen. Progesterone acts on the uterine membrane by thinning it, which makes it hard for the egg (ovule) to nestle itself into the uterus. By thickening the secretion of the cervix, the IUD makes it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus.
The second method, a non-hormonal IUD, is wrapped in copper and does not release hormones. In this case, copper acts as a spermicide. Copper also cause a light inflammation of the uterine lining, making it impossible for the egg to attach itself to the uterus.
The IUD is over 98% effective. .
Because this method is not suited for all women, you must first have a health exam and obtain a green light from a doctor to use an IUD. Only a doctor can prescribe and install IUD’s.
Precautions
- IUD’s offer no protection against sexually transmitted infections (STI’s). It can also make you more vulnerable to Chlamydia and gonorrhea infections. Use a condom to avoid STI’s.
- Be alert to warning signs of infection or signs that the IUD has moved out of place, they include persistent abdominal pain, fever or abnormal vaginal secretions.