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.

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Types of IUD's

• 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.

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• 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

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*Definition From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

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