Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
An Intrauterine device (IUD) is a T-shaped, plastic device placed within the uterus with one or two strings hanging from it that reach through the cervix into the vagina. Once the IUD is removed, there is no delay in the return of fertility.
Synopsis
There are two types of IUDs. The copper-bearing IUD has copper wire wrapped around it which prevents pregnancy by causing a chemical change that damages sperm before they can fertilize an egg. The levonorgestrel IUD releases a small amount of levonorgestrel each day to prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg. This is also called the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system, LNG-IUS, or hormonal IUD and is marketed under the names Mirena, Liletta, Levosert, Kyleena, Skyla, and Jaydess.Both types of IUDs are inserted by a healthcare provider through the vagina and cervix, and placed within the uterus.
There are two types of IUDs. The copper-bearing IUD has copper wire wrapped around it which prevents pregnancy by causing a chemical change that damages sperm before they can fertilize an egg. The levonorgestrel IUD releases a small amount of levonorgestrel each day to prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg. This is also called the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system, LNG-IUS, or hormonal IUD and is marketed under the names Mirena, Liletta, Levosert, Kyleena, Skyla, and Jaydess.Both types of IUDs are inserted by a healthcare provider through the vagina and cervix, and placed within the uterus.
Key Points
- The copper IUD serves as long-term pregnancy prevention as it is effective for 12 years, and is immediately reversible.
- The hormonal IUD is effective for 5 years and is immediately reversible.
- Bleeding changes are common for both types of IUDs. The copper IUD typically creates longer and heavier bleeding, as well as more cramping during menstruation. The hormonal IUD typically results in lighter, infrequent, or irregular bleeding.
- There are few side effects of the copper IUD, but the hormonal IUD may produce hormonal side effects such as acne, weight gain, mood changes, etc.
- There is little required of the client once the IUD is in place. Most providers recommend clients feel the IUD strings
Effectiveness
- Copper IUD: 99.2%. Less than 1 in every 100 will become pregnant in the first year of using a copper IUD.
- Hormonal IUD: 99.8%. Less than 1 in every 100 will become pregnant in the first year of using a hormonal IUD
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