Intrauterine Device (IUD)

The facts: An Intrauterine Device (IUD) is a convenient, effective, long-lasting and reversible method of contraception that is inserted into a woman?s uterus. An IUD is a small, T-shaped device that contains copper or a hormone to avert pregnancy by preventing the fertilization of an egg. There are three kinds of IUD:

• The copper IUD, which is good for 10 years, is a plastic device with copper parts that interferes with sperm and egg migration, fertilization and implantation.
  
• The progesterone IUD, which is good for one year, is a plastic device that releases daily progesterone into the uterus, disrupting ovulation.
  
• The LNG IUS, which is good for five years, has a steroid reservoir containing LNG, a potent progestin hormone found in many oral contraceptives. The steroid reservoir releases a small daily dose of LNG into the uterine cavity for five years, thickening the cervical mucus and inhibiting sperm movement and function.

How well it works: IUDs are nearly as effective as sterilization. The progesterone IUD is 98 percent effective, the copper IUD is 99 percent effective and the LNG IUS is almost 100 percent effective.

Pros:
• A woman does not need to insert and remove the device every time that she has sex because these devices work for prolonged periods of time.
• IUDs are very effective at preventing pregnancy, but they are also reversible, unlike sterilization.
• Because IUDs are soft and flexible, women can hardly feel them, and the devices do not interfere with sex or tampon use.
• Women using the LNG IUS experience a major reduction in both the amount and length of menstrual bleeding after about six months of use. (Menstruation returns rapidly after removal of the LNG IUS.)
• Contrary to many rumors, IUD use carries little risk of causing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

Cons:
• IUDs do not protect against HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases.
• The LNG IUS and the progesterone IUD, both of which contain a hormone, can cause the following side effects (similar to those from birth control pills): mood changes, acne, headaches, breast tenderness, nausea and altered menstrual bleeding.
• The Copper IUD sometimes causes increased menstrual flow and cramps.

Where to get it: Because a doctor must insert an IUD, you must visit your health care provider or a family planning clinic.

Cost: Prices vary, but the combined cost of the device and the charge of the medical visit needed for insertion usually ranges between $150 and $300.