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Home > Services and Procedures > Procedures and Surgeries > Intrauterine Device Placement (IUD)
Intrauterine Device Placement (IUD)

Intrauterine Device Placement (IUD)

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a T-shaped, plastic, small birth control device that is inserted by a trained health care professional into the uterus.

    IUD

There are plastic strings tied to the end of the IUD device.  These strings hang down through the opening of uterus (cervix) into the vagina.  This birth control device must be fitted inside and (eventually) removed from the uterus by a doctor or qualified medical provider.  Improper insertion of an IUD can lead to infections and/or pelvic inflammatory disease.  For this reason, it is critical that a trained professional insert the device to minimize possible complications.  The IUD remains in the uterus for as long as pregnancy is unwanted.  Furthermore, it is one of the few types of contraception that can be used while breastfeeding.  Depending on the type of IUD, a single device is approved for 5 to 10 years of use (the copper T 380A is effective for at least 12 years).

There are two main types of IUDs: copper IUDs and hormonal IUDs that work by releasing a progestogen (the IUDs contain either copper or the hormone levonorgestrel).  Currently, there are three FDA approved brands of IUDs available on the market in the United States: Paragard, Mirena, and Skyla.  Paragard falls under the copper IUD type, as it is partially made of copper, and releases copper ions within the uterus over time.  The copper creates a toxic environment for the sperm, preventing the sperm from fertilizing the woman’s egg.  Mirena and Skyla fall under the hormonal IUD type, as they contain hormones that affect ovulation and thicken cervical mucus, thus making it difficult for sperm to flow into the uterus.  Each type of IUD has advantages and disadvantages.  Each patient should thoroughly review and discuss her options with a physician in order to determine the best solution for her unique needs.

IUDs are an extremely effective and hassle-free method of birth control with few side effects.  They are the world’s most widely used method of long acting reversible contraception (LARC), used by almost 160 million women.  While IUDs do not protect the patient against sexually transmitted diseases, they are the most effective contraception method next to tubal ligation and vasectomy.

Please contact our office to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced providers.

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