How do IUDs affect hormone levels in the body. What are the potential side effects of hormonal IUDs on mood and weight. Can IUDs cause hormonal imbalances or changes in menstrual cycles. Are there differences between hormonal and non-hormonal IUD options.

The Mechanism of Action: How Hormonal IUDs Work

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a popular form of long-acting reversible contraception. Hormonal IUDs, such as Mirena, release small amounts of synthetic hormones directly into the uterus. This localized hormone delivery is what makes them effective at preventing pregnancy.

The primary hormone used in Mirena IUDs is levonorgestrel, a synthetic form of progesterone. This hormone works in several ways to prevent pregnancy:

• Thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg
• Thinning the uterine lining to make implantation less likely
• Partially suppressing ovulation in some users

While the hormone is released locally, some of it does enter the bloodstream, which can lead to systemic effects in some users.

Common Side Effects of Hormonal IUDs

Many people use hormonal IUDs without experiencing significant side effects. However, some users do report various changes. According to large-scale studies, the most common side effects of Mirena IUDs over a 5-year period include:

• Unscheduled uterine bleeding (31.9%)
• Decreased menstrual bleeding (23.4%)
• Abdominal or pelvic pain (22.6%)
• Amenorrhea (no periods) (18.4%)
• Headaches or migraines (16.3%)
• Increased vaginal discharge (14.9%)
• Heavier periods (11.9%)
• Vulvovaginitis (inflammation of the vulva and vagina) (10.5%)

Is there a difference in side effects between hormonal and non-hormonal IUDs? Non-hormonal copper IUDs typically cause heavier menstrual bleeding and more cramping, while hormonal IUDs tend to reduce menstrual flow over time.

Hormonal IUDs and Mood Changes: Unraveling the Connection

Mood changes are a concern for many people considering hormonal contraceptives. Research indicates that approximately 6.4% of Mirena IUD users experience low mood or depression within 5 years of use. However, the relationship between hormonal IUDs and mood is complex.

For some individuals, hormonal IUDs may have a stabilizing effect on mood, particularly those who experience significant mood changes due to hormonal fluctuations associated with conditions like premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Do hormonal IUDs affect everyone’s mood the same way? No, the impact on mood can vary greatly between individuals. Some users report improved mood stability, while others may experience mood swings or depression.

Factors Influencing Mood Changes

Several factors can influence how hormonal IUDs affect mood:

1. Individual hormone sensitivity
2. Pre-existing mental health conditions
3. Life circumstances and stress levels
4. Previous experiences with hormonal contraceptives

If you experience persistent or severe mood changes after IUD insertion, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine if the IUD is the cause and discuss alternative options if necessary.

Weight Fluctuations: Separating Fact from Fiction

Weight gain is a common concern among those considering hormonal contraceptives. While some Mirena IUD users report weight gain, most studies have not found a conclusive link between hormonal IUDs and significant weight changes.

A 2020 study comparing hormonal IUDs to progesterone-only injections found that participants using injections gained weight, while those with IUDs did not. However, another 2020 study presented different results. Over 60 months, hormonal IUD users gained an average of 1.52 kg, which was twice the amount gained by copper IUD users.

Can hormonal IUDs directly cause weight gain? While the synthetic hormone in Mirena IUDs may lead to slight weight gain in some users, many factors influence weight, including age, diet, exercise, and overall health. The study’s findings do not necessarily prove that IUDs cause weight gain.

Strategies for Managing Weight While Using Hormonal IUDs

If you’re concerned about potential weight changes, consider the following strategies:

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Monitor your weight and body composition over time
• Discuss any significant changes with your healthcare provider

Hormonal IUDs and Menstrual Changes: What to Expect

One of the most noticeable effects of hormonal IUDs is their impact on menstrual bleeding patterns. Many users experience significant changes in their periods, which can be both a benefit and a concern depending on individual preferences.

Common menstrual changes with hormonal IUDs include:

• Lighter periods
• Shorter periods
• Less frequent periods
• Amenorrhea (absence of periods)
• Spotting between periods (especially in the first few months)

How long do these menstrual changes typically last? For most users, these changes persist throughout the duration of IUD use. Some people find these changes desirable, while others may prefer a more predictable menstrual cycle.

Managing Irregular Bleeding

If you experience persistent irregular bleeding with a hormonal IUD, try these strategies:

1. Keep a menstrual diary to track patterns
2. Use panty liners or period underwear for unexpected spotting
3. Consult your healthcare provider if bleeding is heavy or concerning

Hormonal IUDs and Sexual Health: Addressing Common Concerns

Many people wonder about the impact of hormonal IUDs on their sexual health and function. While individual experiences vary, research suggests that hormonal IUDs generally do not have significant negative effects on libido or sexual function for most users.

Potential benefits for sexual health include:

• Increased spontaneity due to long-lasting contraception
• Reduced anxiety about unplanned pregnancy
• Lighter or absent periods, which may increase comfort during sex

Do hormonal IUDs affect vaginal lubrication? Some users report changes in vaginal discharge or lubrication. If this occurs, using additional lubrication during sexual activity can help address any discomfort.

IUD Strings and Sexual Activity

The IUD strings that extend into the vagina can sometimes be felt by partners during sexual activity. If this is a concern:

1. Wait a few months for the strings to soften and curl around the cervix
2. Ask your healthcare provider to trim the strings if they remain bothersome
3. Experiment with different sexual positions that may be more comfortable

Long-term Effects and Considerations of Hormonal IUDs

While hormonal IUDs are generally considered safe for long-term use, it’s important to understand potential long-term effects and considerations.

Long-term benefits of hormonal IUDs may include:

• Reduced risk of endometrial cancer
• Potential improvement in symptoms of endometriosis and adenomyosis
• Management of heavy menstrual bleeding

Are there any long-term risks associated with hormonal IUDs? While rare, potential long-term risks may include:

• Ovarian cysts (usually harmless and resolve on their own)
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), primarily in the first few weeks after insertion
• Perforation of the uterus (very rare, occurring in about 1 in 1,000 insertions)

Fertility After IUD Removal

A common concern is whether long-term use of hormonal IUDs affects future fertility. Research indicates that fertility typically returns quickly after IUD removal, with no significant impact on the ability to conceive.

Comparing Hormonal IUDs to Other Contraceptive Methods

When considering contraceptive options, it’s helpful to compare hormonal IUDs to other methods. Each method has its own set of benefits and potential side effects.

How do hormonal IUDs compare to other contraceptive methods in terms of effectiveness and hormone exposure?

• Effectiveness: Hormonal IUDs are over 99% effective, similar to sterilization and implants, and more effective than pills, patches, or rings.
• Hormone exposure: Hormonal IUDs typically result in lower systemic hormone levels compared to pills, patches, or rings due to localized hormone delivery.
• Convenience: IUDs offer long-term contraception without daily, weekly, or monthly action required.
• Reversibility: Unlike sterilization, IUDs are easily reversible with a quick removal procedure.

Comparison Table: Hormonal IUD vs. Other Methods

When choosing a contraceptive method, consider factors such as effectiveness, side effects, convenience, and personal health history. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best option for your individual needs.

Managing Side Effects and When to Seek Medical Advice

While many side effects of hormonal IUDs are mild and resolve on their own, it’s important to know how to manage common issues and when to seek medical advice.

Tips for managing common side effects:

• Irregular bleeding: Use panty liners and track bleeding patterns
• Cramping: Over-the-counter pain relievers and heat therapy can help
• Acne: Consider topical treatments or discuss options with your dermatologist
• Mood changes: Practice stress-reduction techniques and maintain a healthy lifestyle

When should you contact your healthcare provider about IUD side effects? Seek medical advice if you experience:

1. Severe abdominal pain or cramping
2. Heavy bleeding or bleeding that lasts longer than usual
3. Signs of infection (fever, chills, unusual discharge)
4. Persistent, severe mood changes or depression
5. Unexplained weight gain or other concerning symptoms

IUD Expulsion and Malposition

In rare cases, an IUD may be expelled from the uterus or move out of its correct position. Signs of expulsion or malposition may include:

• Feeling the plastic part of the IUD
• Your partner feeling the IUD during sex
• Severe pain or cramping
• Unusual vaginal discharge or bleeding

If you suspect your IUD has moved or been expelled, use backup contraception and contact your healthcare provider promptly.

By understanding the potential effects of hormonal IUDs on your body and knowing how to manage side effects, you can make an informed decision about whether this contraceptive method is right for you. Remember that everyone’s experience with hormonal IUDs is unique, and what works well for one person may not be ideal for another. Open communication with your healthcare provider is key to ensuring that your contraceptive choice aligns with your health needs and personal preferences.

Impact on mood, weight, and more

The Mirena intrauterine device (IUD) is a long-acting contraceptive that works by releasing synthetic hormones into the uterus. Side effects of Mirena IUDs include changes in vaginal bleeding.

Many people use the Mirena IUD and have no unwanted effects. The response can vary from person to person.

In this article, we look at common and rare Mirena IUD side effects and how long they tend to last. We also investigate how Mirena compares with other forms of birth control.

Below are some of the more common and less common side effects of the Mirena device.

Common side effects

Large studies suggest that these are the most common side effects of the Mirena IUD in people who have used it for 5 years:

Side effect	Prevalence
Unscheduled bleeding from the uterus	31.9%
Decreased bleeding from the uterus	23. 4%
Abdominal or pelvic pain	22.6%
No periods	18.4%
Headaches or migraine	16.3%
Increased discharge	14.9%
Heavier periods	11.9%
Inflammation or infection of the vulva and vagina (vulvovaginitis)	10.5%

Right after a doctor places the Mirena IUD, there might be unwanted effects, including pain, dizziness, and bleeding. These should go away within several days.

If these issues last longer, speak with a doctor, as it may mean that the IUD is not in the correct place.

Less common side effects

These side effects occurred in 5–10% of participants in studies of the Mirena IUD:

Uncommon side effects

These unwanted effects occurred in fewer than 5% of study participants over a 5-year period:

• hair loss
• excessive hair growth
• nausea
• pelvic infections, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

PID may be a more common complication in people with other risk factors for the disease. For example, it may be more likely to develop in someone with a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

Some people report weight gain while using the Mirena IUD. However, most studies have not found a conclusive link between hormonal IUDs, such as Mirena, and weight gain.

A 2020 study comparing hormonal IUDs to another form of progesterone-only contraception, the injection, reported that participants using the injection gained weight while those with the IUD did not.

Another 2020 study found different results. In a diverse cohort of women, the researchers investigated the effects of the hormonal IUD, the copper IUD, and the birth control implant on weight gain.

After 36 months, hormonal IUD users gained 0.72 kilograms (kg) on average. After 60 months, this figure rose to 1.52 kg — twice the amount that participants using the copper IUD had gained.

This may indicate that the synthetic hormone in the Mirena IUD leads to a slight gain in weight. However, many factors can influence weight gain, including age. The study’s finding does not necessarily prove that the IUD causes a person to gain weight.

Some people experience mood changes while using hormonal contraception. Data suggest that around 6.4% of people who use the Mirena IUD experience low mood or depression within 5 years.

However, it is also worth noting that some people use hormonal contraception to manage mood changes caused by conditions such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

For people who experience significant mood changes due to hormonal fluctuations, a long-acting contraceptive such as the Mirena IUD may have a stabilizing effect.

In very rare cases, people using the Mirena IUD experience:

• a severe allergic reaction
• device expulsion
• malpositioning
• perforation of the uterus
• severe pelvic pain
• sepsis

All of these are serious issues that require immediate medical attention. For example, if the IUD perforates, or pierces, the uterus, the person usually needs surgery to retrieve the device.

If the IUD does perforate the uterus, it no longer works to prevent pregnancy, so the person may need a different method of birth control.

Mirena is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, but if someone does become pregnant while using it, they have a higher risk of complications such as:

• ectopic pregnancy
• pregnancy loss, also called miscarriage
• premature labor

Anyone using this IUD who suspects that they are pregnant should speak with a doctor immediately.

In many cases, unwanted effects of the Mirena IUD are not long-term. According to Planned Parenthood, common side effects such as spotting between periods and cramping typically get better in 3–6 months.

Meanwhile, a person might want to have some side effects of Mirena, such as lighter periods or none at all. Research suggests that these are usually long-term changes for people who experience them while using the IUD.

Serious complications, such as PID, typically develop shortly after the person starts using the IUD — often within the first month. These issues are uncommon.

Speak with a doctor about any severe or persistent symptoms that occur during Mirena IUD use.

The Mirena IUD releases the hormone levonorgestrel, a synthetic form of progesterone. Levonorgestrel works by thickening the cervical mucus and thinning the lining of the uterus, which prevents pregnancy from taking place.

This synthetic hormone can also prevent ovulation, though it does not always have this effect.

The Mirena IUD has several key advantages. It:

• Is highly effective: Mirena is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. In one trial of 1,169 people aged 18–35, the 5-year pregnancy rate was 0.7%. In 12 months, only 0.2% of the participants became pregnant.
• Can work immediately: If a doctor inserts the device within 7 days of the start of a period, it begins working immediately. If a person gets their IUD outside of this time frame, it can take 7 days to start working.
• Long-acting and reversible: The Mirena IUD works for longer than almost any other contraceptive. A person does not have to remember to take pills or change patches.
• Can have other benefits: A person may appreciate some side effects of the Mirena IUD. For example, people with heavy periods, PMS, or PMDD may find that it helps manage their symptoms.

However, there are some disadvantages, such as the:

• insertion procedure, which can be painful
• possibility of unwanted effects
• small risk of infection and other complications
• symptoms that may occur after the IUD is removed

It can take some time after a doctor removes the Mirena IUD for periods to return to normal. Also, some people experience a “Mirena crash,” which involves changes to their mood, sleep, weight, and skin health.

However, scientists have not studied this phenomenon. Its prevalence and the precise link with Mirena removal are still unclear.

Meanwhile, it is worth noting that IUDs do not protect a person from STIs. Using a barrier method, such as condoms, during sexual activity is still important.

The Mirena IUD works in a similar way to other progesterone-only types of birth control, including:

• the progesterone-only pill, also called the mini-pill
• the Depo-Provera injection
• the birth control implant

As a result, all of these contraceptives can cause similar side effects.

The Mirena IUD can last for 5 years, so it may be a more convenient option than taking a daily mini-pill or getting periodic injections.

Nonhormonal methods

Several types of birth control do not involve hormones. These include:

• male and female condoms
• diaphragms
• the copper IUD

These may be better for people who have experienced side effects of hormonal contraceptives. However, these options have varying levels of effectiveness, and a person may find using a diaphragm, for example, less convenient.

The copper IUD is the only form of long-acting, reversible contraception that does not involve hormones. Condoms are the only method that can protect against STIs.

Before getting an IUD, ask the healthcare professional:

• What side effects could I have, and when would they develop?
• How can doctors manage the side effects?
• Is there anything I can do to reduce them?
• Could any of the side effects be an advantage?
• What happens if I have severe side effects? Can I get the IUD removed immediately?
• What are the symptoms of IUD complications?
• Do I have a higher risk of complications due to my medical history?
• What happens if I get pregnant?
• What happens during the insertion procedure? What will you do to reduce the pain?

The most common Mirena IUD side effects include changes to uterine bleeding, abdominal pain, and headaches. Low mood and depression are uncommon but possible.

Anyone who has the Mirena IUD and experiences unwanted effects should contact a doctor for advice.

When deciding on a contraceptive, it can help to weigh up the options with a knowledgeable healthcare professional.

Impact on mood, weight, and more

The Mirena intrauterine device (IUD) is a long-acting contraceptive that works by releasing synthetic hormones into the uterus. Side effects of Mirena IUDs include changes in vaginal bleeding.

Many people use the Mirena IUD and have no unwanted effects. The response can vary from person to person.

In this article, we look at common and rare Mirena IUD side effects and how long they tend to last. We also investigate how Mirena compares with other forms of birth control.

Below are some of the more common and less common side effects of the Mirena device.

Common side effects

Large studies suggest that these are the most common side effects of the Mirena IUD in people who have used it for 5 years:

Side effect	Prevalence
Unscheduled bleeding from the uterus	31.9%
Decreased bleeding from the uterus	23. 4%
Abdominal or pelvic pain	22.6%
No periods	18.4%
Headaches or migraine	16.3%
Increased discharge	14.9%
Heavier periods	11.9%
Inflammation or infection of the vulva and vagina (vulvovaginitis)	10.5%

Right after a doctor places the Mirena IUD, there might be unwanted effects, including pain, dizziness, and bleeding. These should go away within several days.

If these issues last longer, speak with a doctor, as it may mean that the IUD is not in the correct place.

Less common side effects

These side effects occurred in 5–10% of participants in studies of the Mirena IUD:

Uncommon side effects

These unwanted effects occurred in fewer than 5% of study participants over a 5-year period:

• hair loss
• excessive hair growth
• nausea
• pelvic infections, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

PID may be a more common complication in people with other risk factors for the disease. For example, it may be more likely to develop in someone with a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

Some people report weight gain while using the Mirena IUD. However, most studies have not found a conclusive link between hormonal IUDs, such as Mirena, and weight gain.

A 2020 study comparing hormonal IUDs to another form of progesterone-only contraception, the injection, reported that participants using the injection gained weight while those with the IUD did not.

Another 2020 study found different results. In a diverse cohort of women, the researchers investigated the effects of the hormonal IUD, the copper IUD, and the birth control implant on weight gain.

After 36 months, hormonal IUD users gained 0.72 kilograms (kg) on average. After 60 months, this figure rose to 1.52 kg — twice the amount that participants using the copper IUD had gained.

This may indicate that the synthetic hormone in the Mirena IUD leads to a slight gain in weight. However, many factors can influence weight gain, including age. The study’s finding does not necessarily prove that the IUD causes a person to gain weight.

Some people experience mood changes while using hormonal contraception. Data suggest that around 6.4% of people who use the Mirena IUD experience low mood or depression within 5 years.

However, it is also worth noting that some people use hormonal contraception to manage mood changes caused by conditions such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

For people who experience significant mood changes due to hormonal fluctuations, a long-acting contraceptive such as the Mirena IUD may have a stabilizing effect.

In very rare cases, people using the Mirena IUD experience:

• a severe allergic reaction
• device expulsion
• malpositioning
• perforation of the uterus
• severe pelvic pain
• sepsis

All of these are serious issues that require immediate medical attention. For example, if the IUD perforates, or pierces, the uterus, the person usually needs surgery to retrieve the device.

If the IUD does perforate the uterus, it no longer works to prevent pregnancy, so the person may need a different method of birth control.

Mirena is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, but if someone does become pregnant while using it, they have a higher risk of complications such as:

• ectopic pregnancy
• pregnancy loss, also called miscarriage
• premature labor

Anyone using this IUD who suspects that they are pregnant should speak with a doctor immediately.

In many cases, unwanted effects of the Mirena IUD are not long-term. According to Planned Parenthood, common side effects such as spotting between periods and cramping typically get better in 3–6 months.

Meanwhile, a person might want to have some side effects of Mirena, such as lighter periods or none at all. Research suggests that these are usually long-term changes for people who experience them while using the IUD.

Serious complications, such as PID, typically develop shortly after the person starts using the IUD — often within the first month. These issues are uncommon.

Speak with a doctor about any severe or persistent symptoms that occur during Mirena IUD use.

The Mirena IUD releases the hormone levonorgestrel, a synthetic form of progesterone. Levonorgestrel works by thickening the cervical mucus and thinning the lining of the uterus, which prevents pregnancy from taking place.

This synthetic hormone can also prevent ovulation, though it does not always have this effect.

The Mirena IUD has several key advantages. It:

• Is highly effective: Mirena is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. In one trial of 1,169 people aged 18–35, the 5-year pregnancy rate was 0.7%. In 12 months, only 0.2% of the participants became pregnant.
• Can work immediately: If a doctor inserts the device within 7 days of the start of a period, it begins working immediately. If a person gets their IUD outside of this time frame, it can take 7 days to start working.
• Long-acting and reversible: The Mirena IUD works for longer than almost any other contraceptive. A person does not have to remember to take pills or change patches.
• Can have other benefits: A person may appreciate some side effects of the Mirena IUD. For example, people with heavy periods, PMS, or PMDD may find that it helps manage their symptoms.

However, there are some disadvantages, such as the:

• insertion procedure, which can be painful
• possibility of unwanted effects
• small risk of infection and other complications
• symptoms that may occur after the IUD is removed

It can take some time after a doctor removes the Mirena IUD for periods to return to normal. Also, some people experience a “Mirena crash,” which involves changes to their mood, sleep, weight, and skin health.

However, scientists have not studied this phenomenon. Its prevalence and the precise link with Mirena removal are still unclear.

Meanwhile, it is worth noting that IUDs do not protect a person from STIs. Using a barrier method, such as condoms, during sexual activity is still important.

The Mirena IUD works in a similar way to other progesterone-only types of birth control, including:

• the progesterone-only pill, also called the mini-pill
• the Depo-Provera injection
• the birth control implant

As a result, all of these contraceptives can cause similar side effects.

The Mirena IUD can last for 5 years, so it may be a more convenient option than taking a daily mini-pill or getting periodic injections.

Nonhormonal methods

Several types of birth control do not involve hormones. These include:

• male and female condoms
• diaphragms
• the copper IUD

These may be better for people who have experienced side effects of hormonal contraceptives. However, these options have varying levels of effectiveness, and a person may find using a diaphragm, for example, less convenient.

The copper IUD is the only form of long-acting, reversible contraception that does not involve hormones. Condoms are the only method that can protect against STIs.

Before getting an IUD, ask the healthcare professional:

• What side effects could I have, and when would they develop?
• How can doctors manage the side effects?
• Is there anything I can do to reduce them?
• Could any of the side effects be an advantage?
• What happens if I have severe side effects? Can I get the IUD removed immediately?
• What are the symptoms of IUD complications?
• Do I have a higher risk of complications due to my medical history?
• What happens if I get pregnant?
• What happens during the insertion procedure? What will you do to reduce the pain?

The most common Mirena IUD side effects include changes to uterine bleeding, abdominal pain, and headaches. Low mood and depression are uncommon but possible.

Anyone who has the Mirena IUD and experiences unwanted effects should contact a doctor for advice.

When deciding on a contraceptive, it can help to weigh up the options with a knowledgeable healthcare professional.

Intrauterine devices – pros and cons, pros and cons, advantages and disadvantages of the IUD

There are often disputes among women about intrauterine contraceptives. This is due to the fact that, despite the advantages of the IUD, many do not know about the advantages of using them, believing that the installation of a “foreign body” is dangerous and harms the reproductive system.

It is definitely impossible to judge the disadvantages and advantages of such contraception, because its safety for health depends on several factors. To deal with this, you need to understand what an IUD is, whether it is dangerous to health, and also consider all the pros and cons of the intrauterine device.

What is an intrauterine device?

This compact pregnancy protection product has its pros and cons. Intrauterine devices are not dangerous for women’s health and are not harmful in the absence of contraindications for installation.

Contains copper, hormones, gold or silver. The advantage of each of these components is that they affect the slowing down of sperm motility, preventing them from entering the egg, and minimizing the likelihood of fertilization.

In addition to the composition of the IUD, it can also differ in design. Having studied the list of all the pros and cons, the T-shaped models are in the greatest demand. Their advantage is in convenient installation and reliable fixation in the uterine cavity.

Effectiveness of intrauterine contraception

Considering all the pros and cons, the main advantage of the intrauterine device is protection against fertilization by 99%. According to medical research, if the IUD is correctly located in the uterine cavity, pregnancy with a spiral is possible in only one out of a hundred women.

After insertion, an intrauterine contraceptive provokes aseptic inflammation of the uterine mucosa, which leads to the accumulation of macrophages – special immune cells aimed at fighting bacteria or viruses. Since the inflammation is caused mechanically and not by the presence of pathogenic organisms, the macrophages begin to engulf the spermatozoa. If the egg has already been fertilized, they have a destructive effect on its membrane, preventing the onset of pregnancy.

The advantage of the IUD is that such inflammation is not dangerous for the female body. The process occurs at the cellular level and does not cause fever, ailments and other unpleasant symptoms and disadvantages.

The content of copper and other metals in the IUD increases the effectiveness of contraception. Copper ions increase the viscosity of cervical mucus, creating a natural barrier to sperm penetration. Additives in the form of silver and gold increase the life of the coil, slowing down the process of its oxidation. This is considered an additional plus of spirals.

The hormonal IUD, which has its pros and cons, has a slightly different mechanism of action. After the introduction, it irritates the uterine mucosa, preventing fertilization, and the hormones that make up the composition inhibit the growth of the endometrium, due to which the egg cannot attach to the wall of the uterus after fertilization. This provides maximum protection against pregnancy.

Another advantage of hormonal IUDs is that sometimes they are prescribed not only for contraception, but also for medicinal purposes. The hormone present in the composition inhibits the excessive growth of endometrial cells, which can be observed in patients with diabetes, overweight, during menopause.

Advantages of intrauterine devices

If we weigh all the pros and cons, in modern medicine, the intrauterine device is one of the most effective means to protect against unwanted pregnancy. The added benefit is that the woman will be protected without harm to her health, plus she won’t have to worry about taking birth control pills or breaking a condom.

Ease of use is another advantage of the intrauterine device. Installation is safe and takes only a few minutes. From this point on, for several years, you can forget about other methods of contraception, which have a number of disadvantages. It can also be considered a plus that a woman can monitor the correct location of the spiral through an X-ray or ultrasound machine.

Considering the pros and cons, some point out unreasonably high prices for IUDs as one of the main disadvantages. In fact, this is not a minus. For example, if you calculate the amount of expenses for three years, which goes to other contraceptives, then the cost of an intrauterine contraceptive will seem simply ridiculous and will become a plus.

The advantage of the intrauterine device over other methods of contraception lies in the instant restoration of fertility. A woman who wants to get pregnant can remove the coil at any time and in a few weeks boast a rapid test with two strips.

If the patient does not plan pregnancy, it will be a plus that immediately after removing the intrauterine device, the doctor can install a new one. Re-installation is safe for health and will not cause harm.

While studying the pros and cons of intrauterine contraception, one should also note the advantage that the IUD is suitable for new mothers and can be inserted 6 weeks after birth. It will not affect the lactation process, is not dangerous for the child and will not harm his health, unlike birth control pills, which have many disadvantages. An additional plus is that the spiral does not affect the hormonal background, which means it does not reduce libido.

Another advantage of the IUD is that it is allowed to be installed in women with severe chronic diseases, in which the use of hormonal drugs is prohibited. Doctors recommend this contraceptive if a woman is diagnosed with epilepsy, heart failure, lupus erythematosus, hypertension, etc.

A separate advantage of the intrauterine device is that it can be used as an emergency contraceptive. To do this, the IUD must be installed within the first five days after unprotected intercourse. According to medical research, the advantage of installing a coil in this case is that it is safer and more effective than taking emergency contraceptive drugs. Unlike IUD pills, it does not cause hormonal imbalance and other disadvantages. The only condition is that copper must be present in its composition. The disadvantage of hormonal models is that they are not suitable for emergency protection against pregnancy.

Disadvantages of the IUD

Considering the advantages of intrauterine devices, you need to know how dangerous this type of contraception is and what its disadvantages can harm the body.

The disadvantages of the IUD include:

• the possibility of ectopic pregnancy;
• no 100% protection against conception;
• the possibility of rejection of a foreign body by the body;
• risk of expulsion of the IUD with significant physical exertion;
• the need for regular monitoring of the position of the spiral;
• increase in the duration or profusion of menstruation.

With all the advantages of the intrauterine device, the main disadvantage is that its use can lead to thinning of the endometrium. This is dangerous because in the future it causes problems with conception and infertility, because. the egg after fertilization will not be able to attach to the wall of the uterus.

Another disadvantage is that during the insertion/removal of the IUD, injury to the cervix is ​​possible. Because of this, it is dangerous to install it for nulliparous patients and women with a narrowed cervical canal.

It is important to know that the IUD does not protect against genital infections, which cause great harm to the reproductive system. Therefore, it is dangerous for women who do not have a permanent sexual partner to use intrauterine contraception, despite all its advantages. It is better to use other methods, comparing the harm of the intrauterine device with the disadvantages of other types of contraception and weighing all their pros and cons.

Why is the intrauterine device dangerous?

Considering all the pros and cons of such contraception, it is important to familiarize yourself with the possible complications after the introduction of the IUD. Side effects are more likely to occur in women with menstrual irregularities or chronic gynecological diseases. For them, the installation of an intrauterine contraceptive is dangerous and can be harmful to health, therefore, after weighing the pros and cons, it is better to choose other methods of contraception.

(see video after the article)

Insertion of an IUD can lead to the following side effects:

• uterine bleeding;
• perforation of the uterine wall;
• vasovagal syncope;
• damage to the uterine cervix.

In some cases, after the introduction of an intrauterine device, profuse uterine bleeding occurs, and due to the inexperience of the doctor, damage to the cervix, perforation of the uterine walls is possible. A puncture of the uterus is usually accompanied by severe pain in the abdomen and increased bleeding. The risk of perforation is increased by chronic inflammation of the genital organs or endometriosis. This is a serious disadvantage of intrauterine contraception, which is dangerous to health.

The possibility of developing infectious complications also refers to the disadvantages of intrauterine contraception. If an infection is suspected after the insertion of an IUD, doctors recommend a course of antibiotic therapy, which will reduce the risk of harm to health.

The disadvantage of the IUD is that after its installation there is a risk of spontaneous expulsion of the product from the uterine cavity or its displacement. Such a minus is not dangerous to health and is more common in the first months after administration. To reduce the risk of expulsion, a woman after placing an intrauterine device may be prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs.

With all the advantages of the intrauterine device, sometimes it can grow into the uterine cavity. The reason is more often the excess of the service life of the contraceptive recommended by the manufacturer or the wrong installation technique. To avoid this disadvantage, trust the procedure to an experienced doctor and do not wear the IUD for longer than the allotted time.

Hormonal coils have more disadvantages than copper-containing models. After the introduction of the IUD, a woman may increase the duration of menstruation, and in the intervals between them, spotting may occur. Some women in reviews of the pros and cons of hormonal IUDs also complain of symptoms such as mood changes, decreased sex drive, headaches, and nausea. Such disadvantages are rare and often disappear a few months after installation.

To weigh all the arguments for and against the intrauterine device, before the procedure, the gynecologist talks about the pros and cons of such contraception, and also carefully examines the woman for contraindications that are dangerous for the introduction of an intrauterine contraceptive. The installation of an IUD can be harmful during pregnancy, infectious and inflammatory processes of the genitourinary system, uterine bleeding, etc. If there are no contraindications, then the spiral can be installed – it is not dangerous and will not cause harm.

Doctors’ recommendations

With all the advantages of intrauterine contraception, doctors recommend using it for patients who have already given birth and have a permanent sexual partner. For them, the installation of a spiral is devoid of disadvantages and will not harm health.

Doctors also warn that in the first days after the insertion of an intrauterine device, a woman may experience slight bleeding and pain in the lower abdomen. These symptoms are considered normal, tk. The body needs time to get used to the foreign body. A month later, the gynecologist prescribes a second appointment, which helps to eliminate possible complications and check the location of the spiral in the uterine cavity.

(see video after the article)

It is recommended to remove the intrauterine device during the last days of menstruation. This will reduce the pain of the procedure and facilitate the extraction procedure. The IUD is removed on an outpatient basis with special forceps. Of the minuses, it is noted that after removing the spiral, a woman may experience muscle spasms and an increase in the amount of spotting. Doctors do not attribute these symptoms to the shortcomings of the intrauterine device, believing that they are not dangerous to health.

According to doctors, the intrauterine device is a reliable means of contraception, but the method, with all its advantages, requires responsibility and more frequent medical examinations. By following all the recommendations of the gynecologist, you can not worry about the minuses or health problems and in the future it is easy to bear a healthy baby.

Reviews of the pros and cons of the IUD

We offer several reviews of the IUD from obstetrician-gynecologists and patients, which indicate the pros and cons of intrauterine contraception. This will help to make the final choice in favor of a suitable means of protection against unwanted pregnancy.

Irina, obstetrician-gynecologist

IUD is one of the modern types of contraception for women with children. Having considered all the pros and cons, the intrauterine device has many advantages – simple installation, reliable protection against pregnancy, no harm to women’s health. Another advantage is that after the insertion of the IUD, a woman does not need to think about protection. This improves the relationship between partners. The risk of getting pregnant after installation is minimized. In my practice, there were only a few women with this problem. The big disadvantage is that in all cases the pregnancy was ectopic, and this is very dangerous.

Marina, obstetrician-gynecologist

When postpartum women come to me with a request to advise a reliable remedy against unwanted pregnancy and tell about all its pros and cons, I recommend intrauterine contraception. It is not dangerous for women’s health, is cheaper than birth control pills, does not lead to weight gain and does not require daily monitoring. Before installation, I prescribe a thorough examination. This helps to eliminate contraindications and possible disadvantages that will harm women’s health, to weigh the pros and cons of intrauterine contraception.

Irina, 29 years old

After the second birth, I thought about long-acting contraception, which is not dangerous for the body. Having studied all the pros and cons, I settled on an intrauterine device. The gynecologist advised the Goldlily Exclusive model, because it is devoid of the shortcomings of copper models and does not harm health. After installation, a couple of months, menstruation was more abundant, later everything returned to normal. I don’t feel discomfort and other disadvantages from wearing it, there are no side effects either.

Nina, 35 years old

I had an intrauterine device inserted two years ago after an abortion. I installed it at the local gynecologist after passing tests and a smear. To reduce the risk of complications and other deficiencies that are dangerous to health, I used anti-inflammatory candles for a week after installation. The spiral took root quickly, the cycle is normal, no minuses and harm to health have been identified during this time.

Video

Article author:

Klimovich Elina Valerievna

obstetrician-gynecologist

Work experience more than 20 years

Installation of an intrauterine device – price, install an IUD in Moscow at the Medscan clinic

The intrauterine device is a small F-, T- or ring-shaped device made of non-toxic hypoallergenic materials. In modern gynecology, T-shaped intrauterine devices are commonly used. There are 2 types of intrauterine devices – metal and hormone-containing.

Metallic (non-hormonal)

They consist of plastic and metal – copper, an alloy of silver or gold. After installation, the metal part of the helix begins to slowly oxidize, which changes the nature of the mucous secretion produced by the glandular epithelium of the cervical canal. It becomes more viscous, which makes it difficult for sperm to move into the uterine cavity and prevents the fertilization of the egg. If fertilization nevertheless took place, the abortive effect of the IUD is manifested. The protruding parts of the spiral prevent the embryo from attaching to the internal mucosa of the uterine cavity – the endometrium. The effectiveness of a non-hormonal intrauterine device is more than 98% per year. This means that within 1 year of using an IUD, less than 2 out of 100 women who are sexually active become pregnant.

Advantages of non-hormonal types of IUD:

• No effect on the hormonal background of a woman.
• Absence of side effects in the form of weight gain.
• Can be used during breastfeeding.
• High efficiency – the probability of pregnancy is less than 2% per year.
• The effectiveness of the contraceptive is not affected by the woman’s lifestyle, taking any medication.
• Instant action – coil starts working immediately after installation.
• Can be administered on any day of the menstrual cycle.
• Ability to remove the medical device at any time.
• Possibility of pregnancy immediately after coil removal.
• Versatility – metal IUDs are suitable for most women of childbearing age.

The disadvantages of this type of contraceptive include an increase in the volume of menstrual flow, which can cause the development of anemia.

Attention! A disadvantage common to all types of intrauterine contraceptives is their inability to protect a woman from sexually transmitted infections.

Hormone containing (hormonal)

Such models of intrauterine contraceptives contain a capsule that contains levonorgestrel, a synthetic analogue of the hormone progesterone. It is released into the uterine cavity during the entire period the coil is inside (usually 5 years) and causes thickening of the mucous content of the cervix. As a result, an obstacle is created for spermatozoa, which reduces the likelihood of fertilization of the egg. If it does occur, the embryo is not fixed in the uterine cavity, since levonorgestrel causes thinning of the endometrium – its thickness will not be enough for implantation of the fetal egg. This is the abortive effect of hormonal coils. In some women, they suppress ovulation, which dramatically increases the effectiveness of the contraceptive method. When using a hormonal IUD, the chances of pregnancy range from 2 per 1000 women to 2 per 100 women over 10 years, which corresponds to less than 0.2% per year.

Benefits of using hormonal IUDs:

• Increased efficiency compared to metal analogues – the probability of pregnancy is less than 0.2% per year.
• Absence of a side effect in the form of an increase in bleeding on the days of menstruation (this is due to the thinning of the endometrium lining the uterus from the inside).