INTRAUTERINE DEVICES (IUDs)

IUD

FDA-Approved Contraception For Women

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a type of birth control. Unlike birth control pills that must be taken daily, these are placed through the cervix and into the uterus by a medical professional, and remain effective for 3 to 10 years, depending on the type. They are a highly effective form of birth control, as patients just need to “set it and forget it”—unlike pills, rings or condoms, there is no way to use an IUD incorrectly. New River Women’s Health is proud to offer several types of IUDs that can be inserted here in our office in Blacksburg, VA.

WHAT IS AN IUD?

An intrauterine device is a form of birth control that is inserted into the uterus through the cervix. They are about 1.25 inches long and are shaped like a “T.” Intrauterine devices work by preventing sperm from traveling up the fallopian tubes and reaching an egg. Once placed inside the uterus, intrauterine devices are 99% effective for many years. While this form of birth control does last a long time, it can be removed at any point if a patient no longer wants it.

TYPES OF IUDs

There are two main types of intrauterine devices. While they both successfully prevent pregnancy, they function differently.

Hormonal

This type releases progestin—a hormone that is frequently used in birth control pills—to prevent sperm from reaching an egg. Similar to some birth control pills, this type of intrauterine device can help regulate heavy periods. Types of hormonal devices include Mirena, Skyla, Liletta and Kyleena, and they last 3 to 6 years, depending on the specific brand.

Also known as ParaGuard, this option does not contain hormones, and instead triggers your immune system to stop sperm. ParaGuard can last up to 10 years.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN GETTING AN IUD

Your contraceptive device can be inserted here at our Blacksburg, VA office by a member of our team. Here is what you can expect:

Some women report cramping and discomfort during the insertion process—as a result, you may want to take over-the-counter pain medication prior to your appointment. The device can be inserted at any point in your menstrual cycle, so you do not need to adjust your appointment if you are on your period.

During the insertion, a member of our team may first numb the area around the cervix. They will use a speculum to gently open the vagina and allow access to the cervix. Then, they will carefully insert the device through the cervix and into the uterus. This is a quick procedure, only lasting a few minutes. Some patients report feeling cramping and pain during the insertion, while others have minimal discomfort.

After the insertion, some patients may experience periodic lower back pain, cramping and spotting, but this should go away after a few months. Some patients who receive ParaGuard may experience heavier periods for the first few months after the insertion. Once inserted, the device works immediately, and patients can have sexual intercourse at any time.

BENEFITS OF IUDs

These devices have many benefits over other forms of birth control. Benefits include:

Long-lasting

Depending on the device type, this form of birth control can last 3 to 10 years.

Unlike birth control pills that you must take daily, or rings that you must place correctly, patients do not need to perform any maintenance for their IUD to be effective—just set it and forget it.

These devices are up to 99% effective.

If at any point a patient wants to get pregnant or wants to explore another birth control option, these devices can be easily removed.

Please note that while intrauterine devices are effective in preventing unwanted pregnancy, they do not protect patients against STIs. Patients with IUDs are encouraged to communicate their sexual history with their partners, regularly get tested for STIs and use a condom if they are unsure of their partner’s STI status.

READY TO GET STARTED? REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!