Intrauterine devices are becoming increasingly popular and for a good cause. They are a low-maintenance and long-lasting method of preventing pregnancy. An IUD is a little T-shaped birth control device that gets inserted into your uterus. For the period of use, the flexible plastic gadget sits just inside the uterus. There are two types of IUDs:
- Non-hormonal
- Hormonal
Non-hormonal IUDs
This intrauterine device includes spermicidal properties and is called the copper IUD. It is the longest-acting reversible birth control method, lasting up to 10 years. You get monthly periods with it, and they may be heavier and crampier than usual, especially in the initial months. This method is perfect if you want a non-hormonal method but want your menstrual cycle to continue.
Hormonal IUDs
They produce a tiny amount of progestin, which is part of the birth control pills. They do not include oestrogen, unlike other birth control pills. Progestin thickens cervical mucus, inhibiting sperm from entering and ovulation in particular women. This results in a lighter menstrual cycle, which is safe. Unlike oral contraceptives, the progestin in these IUDs gets administered locally than travelling through your body, resulting in fewer side effects.
Benefits of IUDs
Highly effective
The intrauterine device is the most effective birth control option available today. IUD users have a pregnancy rate of fewer than 1%. It is more effective than tubal ligation or tying your tubes. Hence, it gets frequently advocated as an alternative to tubal ligation due to its ease of reversibility.
Fewer side effects
Some women avoid birth control methods that have oestrogen, such as birth control pills. Women with hypertension, specific migraines, who smoke or are at risk for cardiovascular disease, should be careful about their birth control method. Since the IUD does not have oestrogen, it is a low-risk option. Also, the progesterone content is substantially lower than the alternatives.
Furthermore, common oral contraceptive side effects like nausea, bloating, and breast tenderness are less common with the IUD.
Economical
IUDs are affordable birth control techniques accessible in the long run. Unlike other procedures, the IUD only requires a one-time payment. Women who use hormonal IUDs stop menstruation while the device is in place, save money by not buying tampons or pads.
Convenient
Once your IUD is in place, you need not bother about it until it expires or remove it. That means no trips to the pharmacy, no pills or rings to put on, and no preventative measures to take before intercourse. Plus, depending on the type, you receive protection against pregnancy for about three to 12 years.
Reversible
IUDs are removable. You can remove them when you decide to get pregnant. IUDs do not affect your fertility or make it difficult to conceive in the future. You get pregnant as soon as your IUD is removed.