Intrauterine device (IUD)

The intrauterine device (IUD) is a T-shaped piece of plastic placed inside the uterus. The piece of plastic contains copper or the synthetic hormone progesterone, which prevents pregnancy. The device releases a constant low dose of synthetic hormone continuously throughout the day.

The progesterone IUD and the copper IUD prevent pregnancy in one of two ways:

The released progesterone or copper causes changes in the cervical mucus and inside the uterus that kill sperm or make them immobile.
The IUD changes the lining of the uterus, preventing implantation in the event of fertilization. It is important to consider the ethical implications of this third method.

How to use an IUD?

Before inserting the IUD, your healthcare provider will do a pelvic exam, a Pap smear, and possibly an sexually transmitted diseases culture. Your healthcare provider will then insert the IUD through your vagina and cervix into your uterus. A follow-up visit will be scheduled two to three months after the insertion of the IUD.

If there are no problems or it is time for an annual checkup, there is no need to see a doctor until it is removed. IUDs can stay in place for five to ten years, depending on the type.

We recommend that you check the rope after each period to make sure the IUD is still in place. Don't pull on the string.

How effective is the IUD?

The intrauterine system has a failure rate of less than 1%. This means that less than 1 in 100 IUD users will become pregnant within the first year of use. You must take a pregnancy test if you have symptoms of pregnancy.