Intrauterine devices (IUD) are an effective and increasingly popular form of reversible contraception.
The increase in popularity is due to their efficiency, ease of reversibility and patient satisfaction, with minimal effort required for long-term use.
A gynaecologist will help you understand which method of contraception is suitable for you after a consultation, studying your medical history and taking into account your wishes.
There are the following types of intrauterine contraceptive devices:
- Non-hormonal: made of plastic or metal (copper, silver or gold).
- Hormonal: contain the hormone levonorgestrel (LNG)
How does the IUD insertion process work?
Intrauterine device insertion is an outpatient procedure that should only be performed by healthcare professionals.
The ideal time for the IUD insertion is the last days of menstruation: the cervix is half-open during this period and the mucous layer of the endometrium has already come out.
A woman comes to the doctor at the end of her period (has her tests taken beforehand), a speculum is inserted into her vagina, the cervix is treated with an antiseptic and the selected IUD is inserted. The procedure itself is painless; minor discomfort is possible when the IUD is inserted into the uterus.
An IUD can provide reliable protection against unplanned conception from 3 to 7 years.
Absolute contraindications for IUD use include the following:
- pregnancy
- distorted uterine anatomy, which makes it impossible to insert an IUD (for example, uterus didelphys);
- unexplained vaginal bleeding;
- gestational trophoblastic disease with persistently elevated beta-human chorionic gonadotropin levels;
- chronic pelvic infection;
- history of breast cancer, liver tumors (for hormone-containing IUDs);
- allergy to copper, Wilson disease (for IUDs containing copper).
How is an IUD removed?
The IUD can be removed at any time, for example, if you want to get pregnant. The IUD removal is indicated after the expiration date in accordance with the instructions for the device.
A new IUD can be inserted during the same visit as the previous one is removed for women who want to continue contraception.
It is not recommended to lift heavy objects, visit sauna and do physical activities during a week after IUD insertion.
It is also necessary to limit sexual activity for five days after insertion so that the uterus does not contract and to avoid the risk of spontaneous expulsion.
