I U D

An IUD is an intra uterine device that prevents pregnancy. It can be done with or without hormones. It is a T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus.

An IUD works by preventing the implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus. With an IUD that has progesterone, it also works to thicken the mucus to block sperm. In addition, the hormones don’t allow the uterus to prepare for implantation. A fertilized egg will not implant, it will be expelled (aborted), and menstruation will begin as if there is an unfertilized egg.

An IUD must be prescribed by a health care professional. The copper IUD can remain in the body for as long as 10 years. An IUD with hormones is usually changed yearly. This will add to the cost.

It is highly effective (99%) in preventing pregnancy (implantation of fertilized egg) but only moderately effective preventing fertilization of the egg (killing sperm before it can fertilize the egg).

Possible side affects of the IUD include the following:

· Light or no periods

· Increase in menstrual flow

· Stronger cramps

· Pain on insertion and removal

· Uterine puncture

· Expulsion

· Tubal infection

· Pregnancy complication (if IUD is in place when implantation occurs)

An IUD is the choice of women who don’t want to be bothered with birth control because it only involves one appointment per year.

It can be used like the morning after pill for emergency birth control. It will prevent implantation if inserted within 5 days of intercourse.