Your IUD Questions Answered
- Posted on: Aug 18 2022
Birth control options for women have come a long way in the past fifty years. Now there are several different birth control options to fit a woman’s individual needs. There are so many options available that sometimes it can be overwhelming to choose which one is best for you. Luckily there are many reliable resources on the different types and methods of birth control. The greatest resource for choosing the best birth control for yourself is your OBGYN healthcare provider. They have knowledge of birth control options, advantages, disadvantages, and side effects. One of the birth control options that has become more popular is the IUD.
What is an IUD?
IUD stands for intrauterine device and is placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. The device is small and shaped like the letter “T.” It is inserted into the uterus by an OBGYN healthcare provider.
Is Getting an IUD Painful?
The procedure for having an IUD placed is simple but it can cause some discomfort or pain. During insertion, you may experience pain, cramping, dizziness, or lightheadedness. Some women may experience pain, cramps, and / or backaches for a few days to a few months after insertion.
How do IUDs Prevent Pregnancy?
Five brands of IUDs have been approved in the United States. These IUDs are divided into two different types. The first type is a copper IUD which does not contain hormones. The copper material aids in preventing pregnancy from occurring. The second type of IUD contains the hormone progestin which aids in preventing pregnancy.
How Long Do IUDs Work For?
Depending on the IUD brand, they can be inserted and prevent pregnancy anywhere from 3 to 12 years. Speak with your OBGYN healthcare provider to see which brand would be best for you and how long it works.
How Effective are IUDs at Preventing Pregnancy?
According to Planned Parenthood, IUDs are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. It is crucial to remember that although IUDs are a good birth control option, they do not protect against STDs.
For more information on IUDs and other birth control methods visit the Planned Parenthood website by clicking here.
If you’d like to schedule an appointment with one of our physicians, contact us here today!
Resources
Parenthood, P. (n.d.). IUD Birth Control: Info about Mirena & Paragard IUDs. Planned Parenthood. Retrieved August 14, 2022
Posted in: Birth Control