What is an intrauterine device?

A intrauterine device is a T-shaped piece of plastic placed inside the uterus. The piece of plastic contains copper or a synthetic progesterone hormone that prevents pregnancy.

How do intrauterine devices work?

The progesterone intrauterine device releases a constant low dose of a synthetic hormone continually throughout the day. Both the progesterone IUD and copper IUD prevent pregnancy in one of two ways:

• The released progesterone or copper creates changes in the cervical mucus and inside the uterus that kills sperm or makes them immobile.
• Changes the lining of the uterus, preventing implantation should fertilization occur. Ethical Consideration.

How do you use an intrauterine device?

Your healthcare provider will perform a pelvic exam, Pap test,and possibly cultures for STD's prior to inserting the intrauterine device. The intrauterine device is placed through the vagina and cervix, into the uterus by your healthcare provider.

A follow-up visit is scheduled two to three months after the system is inserted. Unless there are problems, or it is time for your annual exam, there is no need to visit the physician until it is removed. IUDs may remain in place from five to ten years, depending on the type.

You are encouraged to check for the string following each menstruation to confirm that the IUD is still in place. Do not pull on the string.

How effective is an intrauterine device?

The intrauterine system possesses a failure rate of less than 1%. This means that fewer than one out of every 100 IUD users will become pregnant during the first year of use. You should take a pregnancy test if you are experiencing any pregnancy symptoms.

What are the side effects or health risks of intrauterine devices?

There are various side effects, health risks and precautions that you should know when considering an intrauterine device as your form of birth control.

An IUD should NOT be used by women who:

• Have or ever had cancer in the uterus or cervix
• Have unexplained vaginal bleeding
• May be pregnant
• Have pelvic inflammatory disease
• Have a history of ectopic pregnancy
• Have Gonorrhea or Chlamydia.
• Are not in a mutually monogamous relationship

Potential side effects from using an IUD include:

• Mood changes
• Acne
• Headaches
• Breast tenderness
• Pelvic pain
• Cramping (copper IUD)
• Increased bleeding during menstruation (copper IUD)
• Nausea

There is an increased risk of pelvic infections, particularly for women who have more than one sexual partner.

Are intrauterine devices reversible?:

Yes. Once an intrauterine device is removed, your ability to get pregnant returns rapidly. It is possible to get pregnant as early as a month after the intrauterine device is removed.

How much does a intrauterine device cost?

There are three fees associated with the use of an intrauterine device: the health care providers visit, the intrauterine device, and a three month follow-up visit. The total cost should range from Rs.1000 to Rs.2000, depending on the cost of the physician's visit.

What about a intrauterine device and sexually transmitted diseases (STD's)?

The intrauterine system does NOT provide protection against the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.

What are the pros & cons of an intrauterine device?

• The Pros of an Intrauterine Device include:
  • Convenient and highly effective
  • Allows for sexual spontaneity
  • Easy - you do not have to do anything once it is placed inside
  • Lasts up to 5 years (progesterone IUD) and 10 years (copper IUD)
  • Progesterone-based IUDs may make your period lighter and less painful
  • Effects are reversible promptly after IUD is removed
• The Cons of an Intrauterine Device include:
  • Available only through a prescription
  • Irregular bleeding or spotting may occur during the first three to six months
  • Copper IUD may increase cramps and bleeding during monthly periods
  • May have hormonal side effects: mood changes, acne, headache, breast tenderness, and nausea (progesterone IUD)