What’s an Intra-Uterine Device (IUD)

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.Â

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.

• 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.

How much does it cost?

You must have the IUD prescribed and installed by a doctor.  The cost of such a device varies considerably; it could be between $60 to $100.  The hormonal IUD (HIUD) can be even more expensive.

How to use it and practical tips

• The IUD must be installed during the first 7 days of your period.
• The installation of an IUD can cause a certain discomfort.Â
• For the first few weeks or months after installation, you might experience cramps and more bleeding during your periods, and possibly bleeding between periods.
• Normally, neither partner should feel it during sex.
• The IUD must be replaced every 2 to 5 years.
• You must check the presence of the IUD’s wires from time to time to make sure it is still in place in the uterus.  To do so, you must insert a finger in the vagina and find small wires located close to the cervix.
• You must see your doctor if you cannot locate these small wires or if you feel the IUD.
• During periods, there is a possibility of the device being expelled from the uterus.  If this happens you must then see your doctor so that it can be reinstalled.
• You must contact your doctor if your partner can feel the tip of the IUD while having sex, or if it causes you pain or discomfort during sex.
• You must also contact your doctor if you have constant abdominal pain, fever or bleeding or an abnormal vaginal discharge.

What are the Pros and Cons?

• The biggest advantage is that once it is installed, you don’t have to think about it for a very long time: from 2 to 5 years.
• On the long term, this contraception method is less costly than the others.
• The HIUD can reduce bleeding during periods and make them less painful.  20% to 30% will stop have periods with this method.  Therefore, if you think you’re pregnant because your periods have stopped, it could only be a side effect of the IUD.  That’s why it’s very important to see a doctor to know for sure.
• The device can be removed at any time you wish to become fertile again.

• IUD’s offer no protection against sexually transmitted infections (STI’s). A condom must be used to avoid infections.
• It can make you more vulnerable to Chlamydia and gonorrhea infections.

Complications

• In rare cases, infections associated with IUD’s can lead to infertility.
• You can have an allergy to the copper IUD.

Extra

If you want to learn more, you can go to these websites:

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Last modification: 2006-02-03