Details / How to
DETAILS:
The intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) is a small, flexible plastic frame with copper sleeves or wire around it that is inserted into your womb by a trained healthcare professional. The copper makes it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg and survive. It can also stop a fertilised egg from implanting itself.
It is more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy, and it lasts for 5 to 10 years, depending on the type.
HOW TO:
An IUD needs to be fitted by a trained healthcare professional. The appointment takes about 20 to 30 minutes and fitting the IUD should take no longer than 5 minutes. Having an IUD fitted can be uncomfortable, and some people might find it painful. Some women get period-type cramps afterwards, but you can use painkillers to ease the cramps. You may also bleed for a few days after having an IUD fitted.
You can have your IUD removed at any time by a healthcare professional. As you can get pregnant as soon as the IUD has been taken out, use additional contraception, such as condoms.
Pros / Cons
- IUDs are more than 99% effective when inserted correctly
- It protects against pregnancy for 5 or 10 years, depending on the type
- It is suitable for women who want to avoid having to remember to take contraceptive pills or injections, and who want a long-acting, reversible contraceptive method.
- There are no hormonal side effects, such as acne, headaches or breast tenderness.
- It does not interrupt sex
CONS:
- Some women may have heavier, longer or more painful periods, though this may improve after a few months.
- Some women may have spotting or bleeding between periods.
- There’s a small risk of getting an infection after the IUD is fitted.
- It does not protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as HIV), so you may need to use condoms as well
You may experience:
- Changes in your monthly bleeding patterns,including:
- Lighter bleeding and fewer days of bleeding
- Irregular bleeding
- Infrequent bleeding
- No monthly bleeding
- Periods that last longer
These changes in bleeding are normal and are not harmful. If you find them bothersome, speak to your healthcare professional.
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Painful and tender breasts
- Weight gain
- Mood changes
- Acne
- There is an increased risk of ovarian cysts