IUD
By Megan Lamberson and Erin Ford
What is IUD?
IUD is a T-shaped piece of plastic about the size of a quarter that is placed inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two types of IUD's that are available- one covered in copper, and the other releases the hormone progesterone.
How does IUD work?
IUD primarily prevents pregnancy by not allowing the sperm to fertilize the egg. It my also make it harder for the fertilized egg to implant into the uterus. The IUD can also thicken the cervical mucus when it is coated in progesterone to prevent the sperm from entering the uterus. It can also prevent ovulation. Ovulation is the release of an egg during the monthly cycle.
How well does it work?
IUD works very well. Only 1 out of 100 couples using an IUD had an accidental pregnancy. Studies have shown that IUD is the safest and most effective methods of birth control. Although IUD's are effective, it can come out. So, it should be checked regularly. How well an IUD works depends on the women's health conditions. The copper IUD allows some flexibility for girls who can't use a hormonal method of birth control.
What does it protect against?
IUD doesn't protect against any STD's. IUD alone can not protect against any STD's except when paired with a condom. Also, an IUD by itself can only protect against pregnancy.
What are some side effects of IUD?
Some side effects that IUD can cause are:
- spotting in between periods
- heavier periods with more cramps with the copper IUD
- irregular or lose of periods with use of hormonal IUD
- expulsion or lose of IUD for some users, particularly teens, the IUD can fall out or become displaced and not work properly
- acne, breast tenderness, head aches, and nausea with the hormonal IUD
- perforation of the uterus- there is a very minimal risk of the device perforating the wall during its insertion
- an infection from bacteria getting into the uterus during insertion
How do you get an IUD?
You can get and IUD inserted into the uterus by a doctor. It is usually implanted during a women's period.
How much does an IUD cost?
An IUD can cost anywhere from 200 to 400 dollars along with the cost of the doctor inserting and removing the IUD and follow up visits.
Recommendation
We recommend an IUD because it is one of the most effective and safe methods of birth control. An IUD is a short and long term form of birth control.