Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

What is the IUD?

An IUD (intrauterine device) is a very small device made out of a type of plastic and is shaped like a "T." The main way that it works is by changing the lining of the uterus so that sperm can't live and travel well to get to the egg. A clinician places it inside a woman's uterus to prevent pregnancy. It stays there and works for 5 to 10 years, depending on which kind of IUD is used.

Two small strings are attached to the IUD. These strings hang down through the cervix (the opening of the uterus). The strings help the woman know that her IUD is in place. They also help the clinician take the IUD out when the time comes.

The strings can't be felt by the woman when she goes about her normal day. They also can't be felt by her or her partner during intercourse because the strings are very thin and soft. A clinician can remove the IUD whenever the woman decides she no longer wants to use it as her method of pregnancy prevention or has decided to become pregnant.

There are two types of IUDs being used in the United States:

  • The Paragard IUD (also called the Copper T) is partly wrapped in a fine copper wire. It works for up to 10 years.
  • The Mirena IUD has the hormone progestin in it. Mirena works for up to 5 years.

The IUD does not protect against HIV and STDs. If you have sex with someone you think could give you an STD, be sure to use condoms.

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Effectiveness

Paragard is at least 99.2% effective.

That means that if 100 women use Paragard, only 1 woman (and probably no women) out of that group will get pregnant.

Mirena is 99.9% effective.

That means that if 100 women use Mirena, only 1 woman (and probably no women) out of that group will get pregnant in a year.

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Advantages

  • IUDs don't interrupt sex.
  • IUDs work very well to prevent pregnancy.
  • IUDs are easy to use.
  • IUDs last a long time.
  • IUDs can cause lighter periods, and the Mirena may cause you to have no period at all.

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Possible Side Effects

Both IUDs have these possible side effects:

  • Cramping when the IUD is put in or taken out.
  • Spotting between periods, especially right after it is put in.

Paragard may also have these side effects:

  • Heavier or longer periods each month. Over time, this can lead to anemia (too little iron in the blood).
  • Painful cramps with your period.

Mirena may have these side effects:

  • Very light periods or no periods.
  • Headaches, dizziness, nausea, sore breasts, or acne. These usually get better after the first 3 to 6 months.

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Possible Warning Signs

  • Very heavy bleeding
  • Unusual pain in the lower belly, shoulder, or lower back
  • Fever
  • Abnormal vaginal discharge

If you experience one or more of these warning signs, it could mean you have a pelvic infection or the IUD is out of place. Go to your clinician or to an emergency room as soon as possible.

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