Health Topics: Contraception: Intrauterine Device (IUD)
For information about receiving prescription contraceptives at Hudson Health Center, click here.
An IUD is a small flexible plastic device. It is of various shapes, inserted into the uterine cavity by a clinician, designed to remain in the uterus as long as contraception is desired, or as prescribed.
It is not known for certain how the IUD works, though several mechanisms have been suggested. The IUD may:
Increase normal rhythmic contractions of the uterus, interfering with implantation
Increase production of prostaglandin which inhibits implantation
Immobilize the sperm as they pass through the uterine cavity
Increase mobility of the egg (ovum) in fallopian tube
Actual use effectiveness range is 90-95%
In order to use effectively, the woman should check the string after each period. It is important to have annual pap smears and change IUDs according to the manufacturers' schedule. Women should not use the IUD if they have:
Had previous Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Not had children
Multiple sexual partners
A history of ectopic pregnancy
An impaired response to infection, for example, diabetes
Abnormal pap smears
Endometriosis
Dysmenorrhea (painful menstrual cramps)
Anemia - increase of menstrual flow aggravates this condition
A past history of gonorrhea
Advantages:
The IUD is very effective.
It allows for sexual spontaneity
Nothing needs to be done at the time of intercourse.
Except for regular string checks and the backup method for the first three months, and possibly during ovulation, it is a carefree method.
The IUD was taken off the market in the spring of l986. Manufacturing the IUD was no longer economically sensible due to an increase in lawsuits. Recently, however, the IUD has returned and is considered a relatively safe and effective method of birth control, particularly for older women.
Disadvantages:
Increased cramping and increased menstrual flow. One in six women who try an IUD has it removed because of excess bleeding or cramping.
IUD users have a higher risk of developing PID, which is an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries, which can threaten fertility. Symptoms are a strong smelling discharge, a sudden or severe increase in bleeding or cramping, unexplained fever/chills or pain with intercourse. Women with multiple partners have a higher risk of developing PID. Medical consultation should be sought immediately if symptoms occur.
Insertion and removal of the IUD can be painful.
An IUD can become embedded in the uterus wall, and possibly perforate the uterus.
There is an increase risk of ectopic pregnancy (the egg implants in the uterus).
Possible expulsion; about 2 out of 10 women expel the IUD.
Know the danger signs:
Pelvic pain, pain during intercourse
Unusual bleeding or vaginal discharge
Exposure to gonorrhea
Missed period or other sign of pregnancy
Fever (101 or more), chills
Missing IUD string
Watch carefully for these danger signs. Often early signs are mild. Call your clinician if you even suspect you may be having a problem.
Hudson Health Center Athens, Ohio 45701 T: (740) 593-1660
