Intrauterine Device (IUD) For Birth Control – Advantages & Complications

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You probably know quite a bit about contraception, and what measures are more effective than others. But, have you heard of an IUD or intrauterine device? Are you thinking about using one and are you looking for some more information on intrauterine devices?

If you nodded along, you should consider reading our post below. Here, we talk all about intrauterine devices, how they work and how effective they are.

[ Read: Can You Still Get Pregnant With An IUD ]

What Is An IUD Or Intrauterine Device?

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a T-shaped plastic contraceptive. IUDs prevent pregnancies as these devices damage the sperm and make fertilization of eggs impossible. An IUD is also at times referred to as a coil.

A doctor inserts the IUD into the uterus through the vagina. The small device contains one or two strings that remain in the cervix. Medical professionals use the threads to remove the device. Women can use the string to check the proper placement of the IUD [1].

The IUD Insertion Procedure:

  • The total insertion time for the IUD is quite short. Your doctor may use a local anesthetic on you if required.
  • The insertion takes place with the help of a plastic tube. The tube contains a plunger, which helps to push the device into the uterus.
  • Once the IUD is in place, the doctor takes the tube out.

If you use an IUD, you need to check the device’s placement every month with the help of the string. It helps ensure that there are no issues with its placement. You also need to have regular check-ups (yearly or as advised) with your doctor to make sure there are no or minimal risks with your IUD use [2].

[ Read: Getting Pregnant After Mirena ]

Types Of Intrauterine Devices:

There are two types of IUDs.

1. Copper IUD:

It is the most popular and effective IUD device:

  • Copper wires surround the tail end of the plastic device.
  • Copper forces the fallopian tubes and the uterus to produce a toxic fluid. The fluid contains copper ions, white blood cells, and many other enzymes, which are toxic to the sperm.
  • Copper IUDs can be inserted for ten years. It is effective immediately.
  • Brand name – Paragard [3]

2. Hormonal IUD:

The IUD contains a form of progestin hormone known as levonorgestrel.

  • Hormonal IUDs prevent egg fertilization. The hormones damage the sperms. They also prevent sperms from entering the uterus by making the cervix mucus thick and making the uterus lining (endometrium) a hostile place for fertilized eggs [4]. Hormonal IUDs prevent the thickening of the endometrium. Hormonal IUDs also help prevent or restrict ovulation.
  • It may take a week or so for the hormonal IUD to become effective.
  • Brand names – Skyla (pregnancy protection – up to 3 years), Mirena (pregnancy protection – up to 5 years) [5].
  • The failure rate of copper IUDs with typical use is 0.8%, and that of hormonal IUDs is 0.2% [6].

[ Read: Birth Control Methods For Men And Women ]

IUD Complications:

There are some risks or complications associated with the use of IUD devices. For most cases, these are safe and effective IUD birth control methods. But, like with any medical procedure, while using there are certain IUD side effect that you may or may not experience [7]. Here are some effective pointers to help you remember:

  • No birth control method is hundred percent effective. Therefore, with IUDs, there remains a small chance that you might become pregnant.
  • If you use IUD and still get pregnant, there is a higher risk that the said pregnancy may be ectopic. Ectopic pregnancy means that implantation of the fertilized eggs takes place outside of the uterus (ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix or abdominal cavity). It is a very serious condition [8].
  • Women, who become pregnant while still using an IUD, have up to 50% chances of their pregnancies ending in miscarriages.
  • In very rare cases, the insertion process may puncture hole in the wall of the uterus (uterine perforation).
  • In some cases, severe infections may result from IUD use. These IUD infections can also cause infertility.

Advantages and Disadvantages of IUDs:

There are many advantages of using IUDs, and several disadvantages as well. Below, we look at both:

Advantages:

  • Both IUDs are extremely effective ways (more than 99 %) of birth control. Only less than one out of 100 users become pregnant while using an IUD [9].
  • Both hormonal and copper IUDs can be inserted for long periods of time. Hence, they are hassle-free and cost-effective ways of birth control.
  • The devices can be removed any time by a medical professional.
  • The IUD removal restores your body to a state conducive to pregnancy.
  • Hormonal IUDs do not cause weight gain problems, which is a side effect of using birth control pills [10].
  • Hormonal IUDs can also help women by reducing their heavy menstrual flow and by providing relief from menstrual cramps.
  • You can use an IUD immediately after giving birth and miscarriages (both elective and spontaneous). Insertion of copper IUD immediately (within five days) of unprotected sex may help to prevent unplanned pregnancies.

Disadvantages:

  • You can’t insert an IUD by yourself. The insertion process can only be performed by a doctor.
  • The use of IUDs carries some risk of infections during the first few weeks of insertion.
  • IUDs do not protect against pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  • The IUD can shift from its place or fall out (expulsion). This can mean extra cost for you as your doctor will need to insert the device again or work on the right placement.
  • Copper IUDs can increase menstrual flow and cramps and incidences of spotting between your monthly periods.
  • IUDs work best for women with prior experience of at least one full-term pregnancy. If you have never been pregnant, you are more likely to experience pain, cramps and increased risks of device expulsion.
  • With hormonal IUD use, some women may experience cessation of their menstruation.

[ Read: Birth Control Shot ]

A Word Of Caution:

If you use an IUD, follow certain cautionary measures to prevent complications. In case, you notice any of these signs, immediately inform your doctor about it.

  • Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
  • Excessive vaginal bleeding
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
  • Pregnancy
  • Fever, chills

There are many birth control methods available in the market these days. Consult your doctor to find the best contraception method for you. Talk to your doctor about all possible risks and benefits of using an IUD. Have you experienced any complications with your IUD use? Tell us below.

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