While many see contraceptive pills as the only viable option for birth control, that’s not actually the case. Women have a wide range of options when it comes to birth control. One such popular option, which is also very highly effective, is the intrauterine device (IUD).
An IUD is a small device that has a T-shaped structure. When inserted into the uterus, it can prevent pregnancy. However, given that it’s not as popular or widely used as contraception pills or female condoms, many people have second thoughts about using this birth control device. That’s why there are several people who will end up trying an IUD device very late into their lives.
Whether you’re using it in your 20s or 30s, if it’s your first time using an IUD, here are a few things you should know.
#1 Types of IUDs
There are two main types of IUDs available. The first is the hormonal IUD, and the other is the non-hormonal one.
Hormonal IUDs release a small amount of progestin, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone, into the uterus. This helps to prevent pregnancy by thickening the cervical mucus, thinning the uterine lining, and sometimes inhibiting ovulation.
On the other hand, non-hormonal IUDs, made of copper, make the environment within the uterus somewhat toxic to the sperm. In doing so, these devices prevent fertilization.
It’s best if you talk to your doctor regarding which IUD is the better option for you. This depends on each person’s individual needs as well as their medical history.
#2 Insertion Process
Having an IUD inserted can cause some discomfort, but the level of pain varies from person to person. Most healthcare providers will recommend that you have the procedure done during your period when your cervix is naturally more open. They will insert a speculum into your vagina to visualize the cervix, then measure the depth of your uterus to determine the proper placement of the IUD. After that, the IUD is inserted through your cervix into the uterus.
You might experience mild pain or cramping during the insertion procedure. Expect the same after the procedure has been completed. However, this pain or discomfort subsides quickly, so you don’t have a lot to worry about here. If you are worried, taking over-the-counter pain medication before the procedure can help alleviate any pain or discomfort.
#3 Side Effects
While many women experience no side effects after getting an IUD, some may notice changes in their menstrual cycle. With hormonal IUDs, periods often become lighter and less painful, and some women may even stop having periods altogether. In the case of non-hormonal ones, you may experience longer or heavier periods. You’ll also see an increase in cramps. However, these side effects tend to improve over time.
You should also be aware of IUDs that are prone to fractures and breaks, like the Paragard IUD. As discussed in the Paragard lawsuit, the Paragard IUD devices have been found to break or fracture during the removal procedure. This has led to severe injuries that needed extensive medical treatment, including surgery.
According to TorHoerman Law, over 1,800 Paragard IUD lawsuits are being consolidated as part of the Paragard multidistrict litigation. The procedures necessary for selecting the bellwether trials are also underway. As this situation continues to unfold, you should be extra careful when choosing an IUD device for yourself and make sure it doesn’t have a bad public record.
#4 Effectiveness and Duration
One major advantage of IUD usage is that it’s very effective. It’s been found in an NHS report that IUDs are more than 99 percent effective when it comes to preventing pregnancy. IUDs can last up to ten years, depending on the type.
One thing you must remember here is that IUDs do protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Therefore, you will need additional protection like condoms during sexual intercourse.
#5 Removal and Fertility
If you decide that you no longer want to use an IUD or if it has reached the end of its lifespan, removal is a simple procedure performed by a healthcare professional. The strings attached to the IUD are gently pulled, causing the device to be easily taken out.
Once removed, your fertility should return quickly, allowing you to conceive if you wish. If you’re not ready to get pregnant, it’s important to have a plan in place for alternative contraception before having your IUD removed.
If it’s your first time using an IUD, don’t worry. Just keep the above-discussed pointers in mind, and you’ll have nothing to worry about this new experience.
