What is an IUD
The IUD contraception is 99% effective.
The IUD, or intrauterine device, is a small contraceptive device inserted into the uterus. There are two main types:
1. The hormonal IUD, which is a small T-shaped device with a cylinder containing progestin hormone around its stem (e.g., Mirena, Kyleena)
2. The copper IUD, which is a small plastic device with copper wrapped around its stem.
How does the IUD work?
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Both copper and hormonal IUDs provide contraception for 5 years.
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Low-maintenance: no need to remember daily doses like the pill.
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Cost-effective: while initial costs are higher, they're cheaper over 5 years.
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Immediate fertility return upon removal, allowing for pregnancy attempts.
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Hormonal IUDs like the Mirena IUD also reduce menstrual bleeding and pain.
Who should use an IUD?
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People who do not or cannot take the pill.
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People who are at very low risk of sexually transmitted disease.
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People who have heavy or painful periods may see a huge benefit with the hormonal Mirena IUD.
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People who want effective stress free long term contraception - set and leave.
Who should NOT use an IUD?
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People who are at risk of sexually transmitted disease.
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People who have unexplained bleeding or pelvic pain.
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People with a pelvic inflammatory disease ( PID ).
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People who have been pregnant in the last 4 weeks.
What are the Advantages of the Mirena IUD ?
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The Mirena IUD is more effective at preventing pregnancy than the copper IUD. First year failure rate 0.07 percent.
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The Mirena IUD reduces menstrual bleeding and anemia.
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The Mirena IUD can stop all menstrual bleeding after one year in 20% of women.
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The Mirena IUD can reduce period pain.
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The Mirena IUD can reduce endometriosis-related pain.
What are the disadvantages of the Mirena IUD ?
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Irregular bleeding is likely in the first 4-6 months.
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Your periods may greatly reduce to nothing.
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It may increase the likelihood of vaginal dryness, acne, headaches, nausea or acne.
Advantages of the Copper IUD
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It has no hormonal side effects
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It is for women who like having a monthly bleed
Disadvantages of the Copper IUD
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It may make your periods more painful and heavier.
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This may result in anemia.
Disadvantages of the IUD
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Both may be expelled from your body, so the strings need to be checked monthly.
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There is a small risk of infection especially in the first 4 weeks, so protect yourself from sexually transmitted disease and no submerging your body into water.
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Rarely if a pregnancy occurred with the IUD in place, it needs to be removed ASAP.
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There is a risk of IUD perforating the uterus (usually with insertion) so we need an ultrasound to unsure your uterine cavity will fit it.
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There is a very rare risk of ectopic pregnancy when the IUD fails.
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Occasionally your anatomy may prevent the insertion of the IUD in the rooms, in which case you may require insertion under a general anaesthetic.