Are you also someone who thinks about family planning? Maybe you forget to take your birth control pills every day. Or maybe you skip the injection you need to take every few months. With things like this, have you ever thought, "Oh, how great it would be if there was a method that you didn't have to think about every day, and could use it once and be free for years?" So, today we are going to talk about one such very effective, long-term birth control method, the IUD, or in medical terms, the Intrauterine Device (IUD).
Simply put, what is an IUD?
An IUD, or Intrauterine Device (IUD) , is a small, T-shaped device that your doctor inserts into your uterus. It is currently the most popular and effective long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) method of birth control in the world.
The biggest advantage of this is that once you have it inserted by your doctor, you don't have to think about birth control again for 3 to 10 years, depending on the type. This method is the most effective of all non-surgical birth control methods. If you decide you want to have another baby, you can have it removed at any time by asking your doctor.
But one thing is important to remember. The IUD only prevents pregnancy. It does not provide any protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), like condoms. Therefore, to protect against such infections, it is wise to use a condom as well.
What types of IUDs are available in Sri Lanka and the world?
There are two main types of IUDs. Both consist of a T-shaped frame made of plastic. Once inserted into the uterus, it opens into a T-shape. It also has two small strings at the bottom. Since these strings are slightly inside the vagina, it is easy for the doctor to remove it at any time.
| IUD type | How it works and description | Brand Names |
|---|---|---|
| Copper IUD | A thin copper wire is wrapped around the T-shaped body. These copper ions create a toxic environment for sperm in the uterus, making it difficult for sperm to travel to the fallopian tubes and fertilize an egg. | Paragard® |
| Hormonal IUD | The T-shaped top part of this contains a hormone called Levonorgestrel . This is a synthetic hormone (Progestin) similar to the progesterone hormone naturally produced in our body. This hormone is gradually released into the uterus and thickens the cervical mucus. This makes it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus. It also thins the inner wall of the uterus (endometrium). | Mirena®, Liletta®, Kyleena®, Skyla® |
How long can this IUD be used?
The time frame for this varies from type to type. The generally accepted time frames are:
- Paragard® (copper): Prevents pregnancy for up to 10 years.
- Mirena® (hormonal): Prevents pregnancy for up to 8 years.
- Liletta® (hormonal): Prevents pregnancy for up to 6 years.
- Kyleena® (hormonal): Prevents pregnancy for up to 5 years.
- Skyla® (hormonal): Prevents pregnancy for up to 3 years.
However, depending on your age and health, your doctor may recommend that you keep it for a little longer than this. So always follow your doctor's instructions.
Who should not use an IUD?
An IUD is not suitable for everyone. If you have any of the following conditions, you may not be suitable for using an IUD.
- If you are currently pregnant .
- If you have an active sexually transmitted infection (STI) .
- If you have cervical cancer or uterine cancer.
- If you have unusual vaginal bleeding for which no cause can be found.
- The copper IUD is not suitable if you have an allergy to copper or Wilson disease (a genetic disease that causes copper to accumulate in the body).
- A hormonal IUD is not suitable if you have severe liver disease or breast cancer .
Therefore, it is essential to discuss your complete medical history with your doctor before getting an IUD inserted.
How is an IUD inserted? Is it painful?
This is the biggest problem for many people. Only a doctor can insert, adjust, or remove an IUD. This process usually takes less than 15 minutes.
1. Before Insertion
Your doctor will check your health to make sure you are a good candidate for an IUD. They may also recommend a pregnancy test or STI test. If you are worried about the pain you may experience during this time, talk to your doctor about it. They may also prescribe painkillers or numb your cervix.
2. During Insertion
You will lie down on an examination table, as if you were having a Pap smear, and a speculum will be used to open your vagina. When the doctor inserts the IUD into your uterus, you may feel cramping or pain in your lower abdomen , similar to that experienced during menstruation. This pain varies from person to person. Some people may not feel any pain at all, while others may feel a little sharp.
3. After Insertion
Some people have no side effects after having an IUD inserted, but some may experience minor discomfort for a while.
- It may feel like dizziness or vertigo.
- You may experience lower abdominal pain or back pain.
- You may experience spotting, which looks like small drops of blood.
At times like this, you can use a common pain reliever (NSAID) or apply a hot water bottle. These discomforts usually subside within a day or two.
What are the benefits and possible risks of the IUD?
Like any medical procedure, an IUD has benefits as well as some very minor risks.
| Advantages | Side Effects & Risks |
|---|---|
|
|
Take-Home Message
- The IUD is a very good birth control method that is 99% effective , long-lasting, but can be restored at any time if desired.
- There are two main types: the copper IUD and the hormonal IUD . Both have their pros and cons, so talk to your doctor about which one is best for you.
- An IUD should only be inserted and removed by a qualified doctor .
- The IUD only prevents pregnancy. It does not provide any protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- If you're considering an IUD, discuss any questions or concerns you have with your doctor so you can make the best decision.
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