Intrauterine Device (IUD)
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An intrauterine device* (intra meaning
within, and uterine meaning of the uterus)
is a birth
control device also known
as an IUD or a coil (this
colloquialism is based on the
coil-shaped design of early IUDs).
It is a device placed in the uterus and is the world's most widely
used method of reversible birth control. The
device has to be fitted inside or removed
from the uterus by a doctor
or qualified medical practitioner.
It remains in place the entire
time pregnancy
is not desired. Depending on the type,
a single IUD may be
used for 5 to 10 years.
There are many methods of birth control that a woman can
use. Talk
with your doctor or nurse to help you figure out
what method is best
for you. You can always try one method
and if
you do not like it,
you can try another one.
Keep in mind that most birth control does NOT protect you
from HIV
or other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like gonorrhea, herpes,
and chlamydia. Other than not having sex, the best protection
against STDs and HIV is the male latex condom. The female condom
may give some STD protection.
Don’t forget that all birth control methods work best if used correctly. Be sure you know the correct way to use them. Talk with your doctor or nurse and don’t feel embarrassed about talking with her or him again if you forget or don’t understand.
Know that learning how to use some birth control
methods can take time and practice. The more you know about the correct
way to use birth control, the more control you will have over deciding
if and when you want to become pregnant.
- Copper T IUD (Intrauterine Device) – An
IUD is a small device that is shaped in the form of a “T.” Your
health care provider places it inside the uterus. The arms of the
Copper T IUD contain some copper, which stops fertilization by
preventing sperm from making their way up through the uterus into
the fallopian tubes. If fertilization does occur, the IUD would
prevent the fertilized egg from implanting in the lining of the
uterus. The Copper T IUD can stay in your uterus for up to 12 years.
It does not protect against STDs or HIV. This IUD is 99% effective
at preventing pregnancy. You will need to visit your doctor to
have it inserted and to make sure you are not having any problems.
Not all doctors
insert IUDs so check first before making your appointment.
- Intrauterine System or IUS (Mirena) – The IUS is a small T-shaped device like the IUD and is placed inside the uterus by a doctor. Each day, it releases a small amount of a hormone similar to progesterone called levonorgestrel that causes the cervical mucus to thicken so sperm cannot reach the egg. The IUS stays in your uterus for up to five years. It does not protect against STDs or HIV. The IUS is 99% effective. The Food and Drug Administration approved this method in December 2000. You will need to visit your doctor to have it inserted and to make sure you are not having any problems. Not all doctors insert the IUS so check first before making your appointment
*Definition From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Information provided by the
United States Office on Women's Health in the Department of Health
and Human Services. This information
is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended
to be used as a substitute for diagnosis and treatment by a medical doctor. Central
Carolina Obstetrics & Gynecology does not endorse and has no responsibility
for the content of any other sites listed on cobgyn.com, and provides links,
references, and educational material merely as a convenience to its users. Seek
immediate
medical attention if your condition is urgent.
