About IUD Birth Control

The IUD is a long-term pregnancy prevention (contraception) method. The T-shaped device is inserted into the uterus. It is placed with strings left to hang slightly outside of the cervix for easy removal by a health care professional. The IUD is usually inserted as an outpatient procedure, and it can be left for up to several years or until the woman wishes to have it removed.

Types

Two types of IUD exist: the copper IUD and the hormonal IUD. The copper IUD lasts up to 12 years, while the hormonal IUD lasts 5 years.

Function

Both the copper and hormonal IUDs change the way that sperm move, thereby preventing them from joining with the egg and causing a pregnancy.

Benefits

The IUD carries many benefits, including one of the highest rates of effectiveness for a birth control method. It's designed for long-term use, and the fact that one doesn't have to think much about it after insertion makes it a carefree choice.

Side Effects

The IUD may have one or more of several effects on a woman's menstrual cycle--including spotting, heavier periods and increased menstrual cramps.

Fun Fact

If inserted within five days of unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure, the IUD can also act as a form of emergency contraception.

Resources

• IUD

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