5 things that every woman needs to know before using the IUD
The IUD (intrauterine device) is a T-shaped contraceptive, often containing copper or levonorgestrel, which is inserted into the uterus. They are a form of long-acting reversible contraceptive. They can last 3 to 5 years inside the uterus.
1. It is the most effective method of contraception in the market
The IUD is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. Other contraceptive methods have the chance of human error or blemish such as the pill that the woman can forget to take or the condom that may be punctured or leak. The IUD is inserted by the doctor and will remain there. The woman does not have to do anything else.
2. It can change your menstruation (for worse or better)
Some women have severe pain during menstruation. There are different types of IUDs and IUDs that contain hormones can relieve the pain on those days of the month.
Some hormones can shorten the days of menstruation and decrease the pains of colic. Some women do not menstruate because of the IUD. However, the hormone-free IUD can cause heavier bleeding and more pain, but these effects may decrease over time.
3. The effects are reversible
If you decide that you want to become pregnant, after taking the IUD, this will be possible. You can get pregnant as soon as you take out the IUD. The IUD is only effective when inside the body. As soon as it is withdrawn the hormonal cycle starts working again.
According to Women’s Health magazine, if you remove a hormone-free IUD, fertility returns in a month. If you are taking a hormone-bearing IUD, it can take up to 3 months for you to be fertile again.
4. The old version has already caused many health problems in women
The first IUDs were associated with complications with fertility and pelvic infections but these types of IUDs have not been on the market since the 1960s. Improved versions of the IUD have been introduced in the market and since the 1980s IUDs have begun to be accepted in the market For being totally safe.
5. It may not be perfect for you
According to Buzzfeed, these are the cases where you should avoid placing an IUD:
If you are pregnant or believe you are pregnant.
If you have any uterine abnormality it would make it difficult for the IUD to stay in place.
If you have an acute pelvic inflammatory disease.
If you have any unexplained genital or uterine bleeding.
If you have had postpartum endometritis or an infected abortion in the past few months.
If you have breast cancer or a history of breast cancer.
If you have any untreated pelvic infection
Now that you know what an IUD is, you can decipher if you need to use it or not.
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