Contraceptives are part of many people’s lives, and one form of contraception gaining immense popularity is the intrauterine device (IUD). IUDs or intrauterine devices are a long-term birth control method. They are small, T-shaped devices that medical professionals insert into the uterus to prevent pregnancy.
Ezra Clinic is one of the clinics in Singapore that offer IUD insertion. A consultation with them can help determine if an IUD is right for you.
In this blog post, we’ll take a comprehensive look at IUDs. Let’s start with the benefits and then discuss how they work.
What Are IUDs and What Are The Benefits?
An IUD is a tiny, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. The device prevents sperm from fertilizing an egg, thus preventing pregnancy with a 99% effectiveness rate. IUDs have several advantages over other forms of contraception, including:
Highly Effective for Pregnancy Control
IUDs are highly effective at preventing pregnancy. IUDs are 99% effective in preventing unwanted pregnancies with typical use. This high level of effectiveness makes it one of the most reliable forms of contraception available today.
Long-Acting Reversible Contraception
An IUD can stay in the uterus for 5 to 10 years, making it a long-term contraception option. IUDs are also reversible; once it is removed, fertility returns quickly. Thus, a woman can become pregnant almost immediately, without any waiting period.
Ease of Removal of IUDs
Once an intrauterine device has been inserted, it is fairly easy for a doctor to remove it, in most cases. The risk of it being difficult to remove is small, but exists, nonetheless, so it’s important to be aware of that. While it is being removed, you may feel cramping for a few minutes.
Alleviates Menstrual Pain and Heavy Bleeding
Menstrual pain is a reality every month for many, and it can be pretty uncomfortable. Over time, IUDs can help to alleviate this pain for some women by reducing menstrual flow, resulting in lighter periods. If your monthly cramps are worse than usual after getting an intrauterine device, see your doctor to ensure it hasn’t moved.
Low Maintenance
IUDs require no daily upkeep and are a one-time cost. This makes them economical in the long run compared to other forms of contraception requiring periodic refills or replacements.
Overall, IUDs offer a form of birth control that is easy to use and cost-effective. Before getting one, you must weigh all the options regarding contraception and talk with your doctor about what is best for you.
How IUDs Work – Non-Hormonal vs. Hormonal
The two types of IUDs are hormonal and non-hormonal. Here are their differences:
Non-Hormonal IUDs in Preventing Pregnancy
Non-hormonal IUDs are made with copper, interfering with the sperm’s ability to fertilize an egg. Copper is toxic to sperm and prevents pregnancy by damaging the sperm’s ability to move and fertilize an egg. It contains no hormones and can be used for up to 10 years.
Non-hormonal IUDs are especially suitable for women who cannot tolerate the hormones found in hormonal IUDs. Non-hormonal IUDs must be inserted by a doctor or trained nurse and can remain in place for as long as 10 years, depending on the type.
Inserting a non-hormonal IUD typically takes no more than 15 minutes. The procedure includes numbing an area of the cervix with local anesthesia, inserting a speculum into the vagina, and then sliding the device through the opening in the cervix and into the uterus.
Hormonal IUDs in Preventing Pregnancy
Hormonal IUDs are devices that contain a synthetic hormone that prevents pregnancy. They work by releasing small amounts of the hormone progestin, which thickens the cervical mucus and makes it difficult for sperm to pass through and fertilize an egg.
Like the non-hormonal version, hormonal IUDs must also be inserted by a doctor or trained nurse. can remain in place for about five years, depending on the type.
Inserting a hormonal IUD typically takes no more than 10 minutes. The procedure includes numbing an area of the cervix with local anesthesia, inserting a speculum into the vagina, and then sliding the device through the opening in the cervix and into the uterus.
Although IUDs are generally considered safe, some risks are associated with their use. That includes a small increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) within the first three weeks after insertion, as per Mayo Clinic.
Perforation of the uterus is uncommon but is a risk, nonetheless, occurring in about 1 in 1,000 IUD insertions. Irregular periods may occur. Always talk with your doctor first about any concerns before deciding whether or not to get an IUD.
Importance of Discussing IUD with an Experienced Doctor
Those considering an intrauterine device (IUD) should have a detailed conversation with their doctor to determine which type suits their needs. It is crucial to discuss any potential risks and side effects associated with IUDs, such as pain during insertion or irregular bleeding. Additionally, women should understand how IUDs work and the different types available to make an informed decision.
By discussing these topics with an experienced medical professional, women can ensure that they have enough information to decide whether to use this form of contraception. With the proper info, women can decide which type of IUD is right for them, if any, while being well-informed regarding usage and side effects.
Bottom Line
IUDs can be an effective form of contraception. Weigh all the options regarding contraception and talk with your doctor about what is best for you. With the proper information, you can judge which contraception is right for you.
This blog post does not replace medical advice. It is for information purposes only.