Does iud affect hormones. IUD Side Effects: Understanding Hormonal and Copper IUD Impacts on Your Body
How do IUDs affect hormones. What are the common side effects of hormonal and copper IUDs. Can IUDs cause changes in menstrual cycles. Are IUD side effects different for hormonal vs copper devices. How long do IUD side effects typically last.
Hormonal IUDs: Benefits and Potential Side Effects
Hormonal IUDs like Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla offer numerous benefits, but they may also cause certain side effects. These devices work by releasing small amounts of progestin hormones into the uterus, which can lead to changes in your body.
Common Benefits of Hormonal IUDs
- Reduced menstrual cramps
- Lighter periods or no periods at all
- Decreased PMS symptoms
- Potential treatment for endometriosis and PCOS symptoms
Do hormonal IUDs always stop periods? Not necessarily. While many users experience significantly lighter periods or amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), individual responses can vary. Some people may continue to have regular, albeit lighter, periods.
Potential Side Effects of Hormonal IUDs
While hormonal IUDs are generally well-tolerated, some users may experience side effects, especially in the first few months after insertion. These can include:
- Irregular bleeding or spotting
- Hormonal acne
- Breast tenderness
- Mood changes
- Headaches
- Nausea
Is it normal to have cramps with a hormonal IUD? Yes, some cramping is common, especially in the first few weeks after insertion. However, severe or persistent pain should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Copper IUDs: A Non-Hormonal Alternative
The copper IUD, also known as Paragard, offers a hormone-free option for long-term contraception. This device works by creating a sperm-hostile environment in the uterus, preventing fertilization.
Advantages of Copper IUDs
- No hormonal side effects
- Immediate effectiveness upon insertion
- Long-lasting protection (up to 10-12 years)
- Can be used as emergency contraception if inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex
Are copper IUDs as effective as hormonal IUDs? Yes, both types of IUDs are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly.
Potential Side Effects of Copper IUDs
While copper IUDs avoid hormonal side effects, they may cause other changes, particularly in menstrual patterns:
- Heavier menstrual flow
- Longer periods
- Increased menstrual cramps
- Spotting between periods
Do copper IUD side effects improve over time? Many users find that side effects, particularly heavier periods and cramping, tend to diminish after the first 3-6 months of use.
Comparing Hormonal and Copper IUD Side Effects
When choosing between hormonal and copper IUDs, it’s essential to understand how their side effects differ:
Hormonal IUDs | Copper IUDs |
---|---|
May cause lighter periods or no periods | Often lead to heavier periods |
Can reduce menstrual cramps | May increase menstrual cramps |
Potential hormonal side effects (e.g., acne, mood changes) | No hormonal side effects |
May help with conditions like endometriosis | No direct impact on hormone-related conditions |
Which IUD has fewer side effects? This depends on individual factors and preferences. Some people may tolerate hormonal IUDs better, while others may prefer the non-hormonal nature of copper IUDs despite potential menstrual changes.
Managing IUD Side Effects
While IUD side effects can be concerning, there are several strategies to manage them effectively:
- Wait it out: Many side effects improve within 3-6 months as your body adjusts to the IUD.
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen or naproxen can help with cramps and heavy bleeding.
- Track your symptoms: Keep a record of side effects to discuss with your healthcare provider.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet: This can help mitigate some side effects like bloating or fatigue.
- Consider switching IUD types: If side effects persist, you may want to explore other IUD options with your doctor.
When should you seek medical attention for IUD side effects? Contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding that soaks through more than one pad or tampon per hour, signs of infection (fever, chills, foul-smelling discharge), or if you can feel the IUD coming out of your cervix.
Long-Term Effects of IUDs on Hormonal Balance
One common concern among IUD users is the potential long-term impact on hormonal balance. It’s important to understand how different types of IUDs interact with your body’s hormonal systems.
Hormonal IUDs and Systemic Effects
Hormonal IUDs primarily work locally within the uterus, releasing small amounts of progestin. However, some systemic absorption does occur:
- Blood levels of progestin are much lower compared to other hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills
- Ovulation may still occur in many users, especially those with lower-dose IUDs like Skyla
- The hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis remains largely intact
Do hormonal IUDs affect fertility after removal? Research suggests that fertility quickly returns to normal after IUD removal, with no long-term impact on the ability to conceive.
Copper IUDs and Hormonal Balance
Copper IUDs do not contain hormones and therefore do not directly affect the body’s hormonal balance. However, they may indirectly influence hormonal patterns through their effects on the uterine environment:
- Increased prostaglandin production, leading to stronger uterine contractions
- Potential changes in cervical mucus consistency
- No impact on ovulation or systemic hormone levels
Can copper IUDs cause hormonal imbalances? While copper IUDs don’t contain hormones, some users report changes in cycle length or regularity. These are typically due to the IUD’s local effects rather than systemic hormonal changes.
IUDs and Menstrual Health
IUDs can significantly impact menstrual patterns, which is a key consideration for many users. Understanding these changes can help set realistic expectations and guide IUD choice.
Hormonal IUDs and Menstrual Changes
Hormonal IUDs often lead to lighter periods or even amenorrhea (absence of periods). This occurs due to the thinning of the uterine lining caused by the localized progestin:
- Up to 50% of Mirena users report no periods after one year of use
- Lighter periods are common even if full amenorrhea doesn’t occur
- Irregular spotting may occur, especially in the first few months
Is it safe to not have periods with a hormonal IUD? Yes, the absence of periods (amenorrhea) due to a hormonal IUD is considered safe and does not negatively impact future fertility.
Copper IUDs and Menstrual Flow
Copper IUDs are known to potentially increase menstrual flow and duration, particularly in the first few months after insertion:
- Periods may be 20-50% heavier, especially in the first 3-6 months
- Menstrual cramps may be more intense
- Cycle length and regularity usually remain unchanged
How long do heavier periods with copper IUDs last? While some users experience persistently heavier periods, many find that menstrual flow returns to their pre-IUD baseline within 6-12 months.
IUDs and Hormonal Conditions
For individuals with hormonal conditions like endometriosis, PCOS, or heavy menstrual bleeding, the choice of IUD can have significant implications for symptom management.
Hormonal IUDs for Managing Gynecological Conditions
Hormonal IUDs have shown benefits in treating various gynecological conditions:
- Endometriosis: Can reduce pain and lesion growth
- PCOS: May help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms
- Heavy menstrual bleeding: Often leads to significantly lighter periods
- Adenomyosis: Can alleviate pain and reduce heavy bleeding
Can hormonal IUDs replace other treatments for these conditions? While IUDs can be effective, they should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan developed with a healthcare provider.
Copper IUDs and Hormonal Conditions
Copper IUDs may not be the best choice for individuals with certain hormonal conditions:
- May exacerbate heavy menstrual bleeding
- Not typically recommended for those with severe menstrual cramps
- No direct benefit for conditions like endometriosis or PCOS
Are there any hormonal conditions where copper IUDs are preferred? Copper IUDs might be recommended for individuals who cannot use hormonal contraceptives due to conditions like certain types of migraines or a history of hormone-sensitive cancers.
Psychological Effects of IUDs
While much attention is given to the physical side effects of IUDs, it’s also important to consider potential psychological impacts. These can vary greatly between individuals and may be influenced by both hormonal and non-hormonal factors.
Mood Changes with Hormonal IUDs
Some users of hormonal IUDs report mood-related side effects:
- Mild mood swings or irritability
- Changes in libido
- Anxiety or depression in some cases
Are mood changes with hormonal IUDs common? While some users report mood changes, large-scale studies have not found a significant increase in depression rates among hormonal IUD users compared to non-hormonal contraceptive methods.
Psychological Aspects of Copper IUDs
Copper IUDs don’t contain hormones, but they can still have psychological effects:
- Anxiety about heavier periods or cramping
- Stress related to checking for IUD strings
- Peace of mind from highly effective, long-term contraception
How can users manage anxiety related to IUD use? Open communication with healthcare providers, understanding normal IUD experiences, and joining support groups can help alleviate IUD-related anxiety.
IUDs and Sexual Health
IUDs can have various impacts on sexual health and function, both positive and potentially challenging. Understanding these effects can help users make informed decisions and manage expectations.
Sexual Benefits of IUDs
Many IUD users report positive effects on their sex lives:
- Increased spontaneity due to always-on contraception
- Reduced anxiety about unintended pregnancy
- No need to remember daily pills or interrupt intimacy for contraception
- For some hormonal IUD users, increased libido due to reduced menstrual symptoms
Do IUDs enhance sexual pleasure? While IUDs don’t directly increase physical pleasure, the peace of mind they provide can lead to more relaxed and enjoyable sexual experiences for many users.
Potential Sexual Challenges with IUDs
Some users may experience IUD-related issues that affect their sex life:
- Partner feeling IUD strings during intercourse
- Anxiety about IUD displacement during sex (although this is very rare)
- For some hormonal IUD users, decreased libido or vaginal dryness
- Spotting or irregular bleeding that may interfere with sexual activity
Can IUDs cause pain during intercourse? While uncommon, some users may experience discomfort during deep penetration if the IUD is not perfectly positioned. This should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Long-Term Considerations for IUD Users
When choosing an IUD, it’s important to consider long-term factors that may influence your experience and overall health.
Bone Health and Hormonal IUDs
There has been some concern about the potential impact of hormonal IUDs on bone density, particularly in adolescents:
- Studies have shown minimal to no effect on bone mineral density in adult users
- Some research suggests a small, reversible decrease in bone density in adolescent users
- The overall risk is considered low compared to other hormonal contraceptives
Should individuals with osteoporosis risk factors avoid hormonal IUDs? Not necessarily. The localized hormone action of IUDs generally poses less risk to bone health than systemic hormonal contraceptives. However, this should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Copper IUDs and Long-Term Health
Copper IUDs are generally considered safe for long-term use, but there are some factors to consider:
- Potential increased risk of anemia in users with heavy menstrual bleeding
- Rare cases of copper allergies or sensitivities
- No known long-term systemic health effects
Can copper IUDs cause copper toxicity? There is no evidence to suggest that copper IUDs lead to copper toxicity or overload in the body. The amount of copper released is minimal compared to dietary copper intake.
Fertility After IUD Removal
A common concern among IUD users is the impact on future fertility:
- Both hormonal and copper IUDs have no long-term effect on fertility
- Fertility typically returns rapidly after IUD removal
- Some users may experience a brief delay in return to regular ovulation, particularly with hormonal IUDs
How soon after IUD removal can you get pregnant? Many women ovulate within the first month after IUD removal, making pregnancy possible almost immediately. Those wishing to avoid pregnancy should use alternative contraception as soon as the IUD is removed.
Rare but Serious IUD Complications
While IUDs are generally safe and effective, it’s important to be aware of rare but potentially serious complications that can occur:
What are the side effects of IUDs?
In This Section
IUD
How effective are IUDs?
How can I get an IUD?
What’s an IUD insertion like?
Are there IUD side effects?
How safe are IUDs?
What are the benefits of IUDs?
What are the disadvantages of IUDs?
How does IUD removal work?
What are hormonal IUDs?
What are non-hormonal IUDs?
Hormonal IUD side effects and copper IUD side effects are different. Cramps and spotting with the IUD are common at first. But many IUD side effects go away or get less noticeable within a few months. And some IUD side effects are positive.
What hormonal IUD side effects should I expect?
Hormonal IUDs (like Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla) can cause side effects. But for most people, that’s actually a good thing — the most common hormonal IUD side effects usually help make your periods better.
Hormonal IUDs can cut down on cramps and PMS, and they usually make your periods much lighter. Some people stop getting their periods at all while they have their IUD (don’t worry, this is totally normal and safe). In fact, many people get hormonal IUDs to help with heavy or painful periods, to treat symptoms of endometriosis or PCOS, or because they just don’t want to bleed every month.
Other hormonal IUD side effects can include:
These usually go away within 3–6 months, once your body gets used to the new visitor in your uterus. And they don’t happen to everyone — many people use hormonal IUDs with no problems at all.
Over-the-counter pain medicine (like ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin) can usually help with IUD cramps. If you have cramping that doesn’t get better or is really painful, talk with your nurse or doctor. They may need to check to make sure that your IUD is in the right place.
The changes in your periods while you have your IUD can make some people worry about how they’ll know they’re not pregnant. But you don’t really need to worry about being pregnant even if you don’t get a period, because the IUD is really good at what it does — it’s more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
If you do think you might be pregnant, take a pregnancy test and call your nurse or doctor right away if it’s positive. It’s very rare to get pregnant while you have an IUD, but if it does happen, it’s more likely to be an ectopic pregnancy, which can be dangerous and needs medical attention right away.
The hormones in these IUDs and other types of hormonal birth control (like the implant and shot) have been around for decades, and millions of people have used them safely. Hormonal IUD side effects aren’t dangerous, though there are some possible risks with using IUDs, like with any medicine. You can always call a nurse or doctor, like the ones at your local Planned Parenthood health center, if you have any concerns. And you can keep track of any side effects you may be having with our birth control app.
What copper IUD side effects should I expect?
The copper IUD (aka Paragard IUD) has no hormones, so you don’t have to deal with any of the risks or side effects that can sometimes happen with hormonal birth control methods.
But copper IUDs often cause more bleeding and cramps during your period, especially in the first 3-6 months. For many people, this gets better over time.
Paragard side effects can include:
spotting between periods
irregular periods
heavier or longer periods
more or worse cramping during your periods
pain when your IUD is put in, and cramping or back aches for a few days after
Over-the-counter pain medicine can help with IUD cramps. And the cramping and bleeding usually get better after a few months, once your body gets used to your IUD. You can keep track of any side effects you may be having with our birth control app.
Birth control shouldn’t make you feel uncomfortable. If you have bleeding or pain that really bothers you, talk with your nurse or doctor. They may need to check and make sure your IUD is in the right place, or they might recommend a different method of birth control for you. Some people try a few different birth control methods before finding the right one for them.
The copper IUD has been around for decades, and millions of people have used it safely, though there are some possible risks, like with any medical device. You can always call a nurse or doctor, like the ones at your local Planned Parenthood health center, if you have any concerns.
Are there IUD removal side effects?
You may have some spotting for a little while after your nurse or doctor takes out your IUD, but otherwise you should feel totally normal.
When you stop using an IUD, your body will eventually return to the way it was before you got it. So if your period got heavier on the copper IUD, it will go back to what was normal for you before you got the IUD. If you stopped getting your period on the hormonal IUD, your period will eventually come back after the IUD is out. It can take a few months for your period to go back to what’s normal for you.
An important thing to note: you can get pregnant right away once your IUD is out, even if your periods aren’t regular or haven’t come back yet. So if you have your IUD removed but you don’t want to get pregnant, make sure to use another birth control method.
Everyone’s body is different, and our bodies also change over time. So there’s no way to know exactly how your body will react to going off the IUD. But any side effects that you may have will go away within a few months as your body gets used to not having an IUD anymore.
If you’re really worried about the side effects of going off the IUD, talk with your nurse or doctor. They may be able to give you more specific information about what to expect based on your personal medical history.
More questions from patients:
Do IUDs make you gain weight?
Nope. There’s been a lot of research on common IUD side effects. And studies show that hormonal IUDs like Liletta, Skyla, Kyleena, and Mirena don’t make you gain weight.
The hormone-free copper IUD — called Paragard — doesn’t make you gain weight either.
There are 2 methods of birth control that may cause weight gain in some people who use them: the birth control shot and the birth control implant. But this doesn’t happen to everybody who uses these types of birth control. Many people use the shot or the implant without gaining weight.
Everyone’s body is different, so birth control affects everyone a little differently. But birth control shouldn’t cause problems in your everyday life — it’s there to help you. So if you notice side effects that you don’t like, talk with a nurse or doctor (like the ones at your closest Planned Parenthood health center). They may be able to help you find another type of birth control that works better for you. Many people try a few different methods before finding one that works well for them.
And remember, once you stop using the IUD, you’ll be at risk for pregnancy. So if you get your IUD taken out by a nurse or doctor but don’t want to get pregnant, make sure you use another method of birth control (like condoms).
Do you get spotting after sex when you have an IUD?
If you’re having spotting after sex when you have an IUD, call your nurse or doctor — especially if you’re also having pain. This may be a sign that your IUD is out of place. Frequent spotting after sex can also be a symptom of another health problem.
Your birth control shouldn’t make you uncomfortable, and neither should sex. If you’re having pain or spotting after sex when you have an IUD, talk with a nurse or doctor, like the ones at Planned Parenthood.
Are there IUD sex drive side effects?
Someone asked us: Can hormonal IUDs lower your sex drive?
IUD sex drive side effects aren’t common. But a very small number of people may notice that the hormones in hormonal IUDs (like Mirena, Liletta, Kyleena, and Skyla) affect their sex drive.
If you think your IUD is messing with your sex drive and it bothers you, talk with a nurse or doctor.
The Paragard (copper) IUD doesn’t have hormones, so it has no possible IUD sex drive side effects.
Can IUDs cause hair loss or nausea?
Someone asked us: Is IUD hair loss a thing? What about nausea with an IUD?
IUD nausea and hair loss are not normal side effects when you have an IUD. If you’re having nausea or hair loss that’s not normal for you, call your nurse or doctor. These things might be caused by another health condition.
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IUD
99% effective
Costs up to $1,300, but can be $0
Put in by a doctor or nurse
Lasts up to 12 years
This IUD doesn’t protect you from STDs. Use a condom with your IUD to help stop pregnancy and STDs.
See All Methods
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Hormonal IUDs
In This Section
IUD
How effective are IUDs?
How can I get an IUD?
What’s an IUD insertion like?
Are there IUD side effects?
How safe are IUDs?
What are the benefits of IUDs?
What are the disadvantages of IUDs?
How does IUD removal work?
What are hormonal IUDs?
What are non-hormonal IUDs?
How do hormonal IUDs work?
Want to get a hormonal IUD? Find a Health Center →
IUD stands for Intrauterine Device — a birth control method that sits inside your uterus. A hormonal IUD is a small piece of flexible plastic shaped like a T. The hormonal IUD releases a tiny amount of the hormone progestin into your body over several years. Progestin is very similar to the hormone progesterone that our bodies make naturally.
The hormones in the IUD help prevent pregnancy, and can also help with painful or heavy periods while you’re using it.
Hormonal IUDs prevent pregnancy by keeping sperm cells away from your eggs. If sperm can’t make it to an egg, pregnancy can’t happen. The hormones in the IUD prevent pregnancy in two ways:
1) Hormonal IUDs make the mucus on your cervix thicker. This mucus blocks sperm so it can’t get to an egg.
2) The hormones in the IUD can also stop eggs from leaving your ovaries (called ovulation), which means there’s no egg for a sperm to fertilize. No egg = no pregnancy.
One of the awesome things about IUDs is that they last for years, but they’re not permanent. If you decide that you want to get pregnant, or if you just don’t want to have your IUD anymore, your nurse or doctor can take it out. After you get your IUD removed, your fertility goes back to what’s normal for you.
What are the kinds of hormonal IUDs?
There are four brands of hormonal IUDs available in the U.S.: Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla. They all work the same and have the same kind of hormone in them. Different hormonal IUDs last for different lengths of time: the Mirena and Liletta IUDs work for up to 8 years. Kyleena works for up to 5 years. Skyla works for up to 3 years.
You don’t have to keep your IUD for that many years though — you can get your IUD taken out whenever you want. If your IUD is going to expire but you want to keep using an IUD, your nurse or doctor can replace it.
What are the benefits of a hormonal IUD?
In addition to preventing pregnancy, many people use hormonal IUDs to help with period problems. Hormonal IUDs can cut down on cramps and make your period way lighter. Some people stop getting their periods at all while they have the IUD. Hormonal IUDs can also help treat the symptoms of things like endometriosis and PCOS.
There are lots of other benefits to IUDs. They’re super convenient — once your IUD is in place, you don’t have to think about birth control for several years. IUDs are also one of the most effective methods of birth control you can get. They’re more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. And if you decide you want to get pregnant, you can get your IUD removed whenever you want and your fertility will go back to what’s normal for you right away.
What are the disadvantages of a hormonal IUD?
Some people have side effects like spotting, irregular periods, or cramping after getting a hormonal IUD. But this usually goes away within 3–6 months, once your body gets used to your IUD. Read more about side effects.
IUDs are one of the most effective and convenient ways to prevent pregnancy, but they don’t protect you from sexually transmitted infections. So use condoms with your IUD every time you have sex to lower the chance of getting or spreading STDs.
What hormones are in the different hormonal IUDs?
All hormonal IUDs use the same hormone — progestin — to prevent pregnancy and help treat painful and heavy periods. Progestin is a safe, synthetic form of a hormone called progesterone that your body makes naturally.
Mirena hormones are the same as in all other hormonal IUDs — Mirena uses progestin to prevent pregnancy and make your periods lighter and less painful. Liletta, Kyleena, and Skyla also have progestin in them.
Some hormonal IUDs have a little bit more progestin than others. But the amount of hormones in an IUD only affects how long it lasts — it doesn’t change how well your IUD prevents pregnancy. All hormonal IUDs are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Can IUDs be used as emergency contraception?
Yes! The Paragard, Mirena, and Liletta IUDs work super well as emergency contraception. If you get one of these IUDs put in within 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex, it’s more than 99% effective. It’s actually the most effective way to prevent pregnancy after sex.
Another great thing about using an IUD as emergency contraception: you can keep it and have really effective birth control that you can use for up to 8 to 12 years (depending on which kind you get). The other kind of emergency contraception is the morning-after pill. You can take it up to 5 days after unprotected sex to reduce the risk of pregnancy.
IUD
99% effective
Costs up to $1,300, but can be $0
Put in by a doctor or nurse
Lasts up to 12 years
This IUD doesn’t protect you from STDs. Use a condom with your IUD to help stop pregnancy and STDs.
See All Methods
Back to top
Abstinence
Breastfeeding
Cervical Cap
Condom
Diaphragm
FAM
Female Condom
Implant
IUD
The Patch
The Pill
The Ring
The Shot
Spermicide
Sponge
Sterilization
Vasectomy
Withdrawal
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Intrauterine device: pros and cons of this method of contraception
What is an intrauterine device?
This is a special tool in the form of a thin elastic plastic wire about 3 cm long. The most modern models are shaped like a T, earlier spirals can be F-shaped or resemble a circle.
The coil is inserted into the uterine cavity once every 3, 5 or 10 years to prevent unwanted pregnancy, and some of them may still have a therapeutic effect.
What are spirals?
All coils are divided into two types, depending on the presence of a medicinal substance in their composition:
Coils containing copper, or non-hormonal
Such coils have only a contraceptive effect.
Hormone coils
These devices additionally contain the hormone levonorgestrel, which is a synthetic progestogen. The hormone has an antiestrogenic and weak antiandrogenic effect, that is, it suppresses the action of female sex hormones estrogens and is an antagonist of male androgen hormones. All these effects are manifested only in the uterine cavity, practically without a general effect on the body, and are used in the treatment of endometrial diseases associated with hormonal disorders.
How does the spiral work?
Spirals increase the viscosity of cervical mucus. This slows down the movement of sperm and prevents them from entering the uterus. The presence of a foreign body in the uterine cavity causes a weak local reaction in the endometrium, which does not allow a fertilized egg to attach.
The copper contained in the spiral prevents the appearance of microbes and prevents the development of inflammation in the uterine cavity.
Hormonal coils have an additional membrane, through which the slow release of levonorgestrel occurs, which provides a therapeutic effect for several years.
How is the coil installed?
The coil can only be installed by a gynecologist. This should be done on the 5th-12th day of the menstrual cycle and better on the 5th than on the 12th, because at this time there may still be menstrual flow, the cervix is ajar, so the installation of the spiral will cause less discomfort and pain.
What are the benefits of an intrauterine device?
The main advantage of the intrauterine device is the prevention of unwanted pregnancy, while its effectiveness is more than 99%. The spiral begins to work immediately after installation, and the action continues until it is removed from the uterine cavity. Restoration of childbearing function occurs immediately after the removal of the spiral.
Ease of use and long shelf life are additional advantages.
In addition, the therapeutic effect of the use of hormonal coils is of great importance. At the same time, compared with oral hormonal contraceptives, the spiral does not have a general effect on the body, therefore it does not affect the level of blood pressure, does not change the hormonal background and the emotional state of the woman.
More additional effects: over time, the pain of menstruation decreases and the abundance of menstrual bleeding decreases.
What are the disadvantages of the spiral?
This method of contraception also has disadvantages:
At first, heavy periods may appear with the release of blood clots. Abundant menstruation can lead to the development of iron deficiency anemia, so monitoring of blood tests is required.
The coil is a foreign body, therefore, in the first weeks after its installation, inflammation may develop in the uterine cavity, which will require the appointment of treatment.
The intrauterine device cannot protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Therefore, you should not rely on a spiral with a new partner, you must use a condom. The spiral is suitable for use only with a permanent partner.
Due to the above disadvantages, intrauterine contraceptives cannot be used for young girls and women who have not yet become mothers. And first of all, because of the risk of developing inflammation in the uterine cavity, which can cause infertility in the future.
Therefore, the main “target audience” for intrauterine devices are healthy women who have children and want to prevent pregnancy in the coming years.
In our clinic you can consult a gynecologist. The specialist will tell you in detail which spiral is better for you to install and what effects it will have.
types, selection, advantages and disadvantages.
Navy – to trust or not to such a method? What are the pros and cons of the Navy?
There are hormonal and non-hormonal IUDs.
Hormonal IUD (Mirena) contains the hormone levonorgestrel
Non-hormonal IUDs come in three types: T-shaped, O-shaped and F-shaped.
The most common non-hormonal IUD is the copper-containing (Cu) Juno.
There are also silver (Ag) and gold (Au) IUDs.
The principle of operation of intrauterine devices.
The IUD is mainly due to mechanical obstacle to the passage of spermatozoa.
In addition, under the influence of the hormonal coil (Mirena), cervical mucus thickens and ovulation is suppressed. In some cases, fertilization does occur, BUT in this case, the IUD prevents implantation.
The hormonal IUD can be used not only for contraception, but also for therapeutic purposes, such as endometriosis.
With the use of a hormonal IUD, menstruation becomes less abundant and may disappear altogether in the future. This is an expected reaction of the endometrium, not a side effect. After removal of the IUD, the cycle is restored.
When is the IUD fitted?
With a regular menstrual cycle, a copper-containing IUD is inserted in the first 12 days after the onset of menstrual bleeding, and a hormonal IUD in the first 7 days. In the case of a hormonal IUD, the contraceptive effect occurs 7 days after installation, so an additional method of contraception must be used on these days. After installing a copper-containing coil, you can live sexually openly from the moment of installation.
If the menstrual cycle is irregular IUD can be installed on any day, provided that the woman is definitely not pregnant! IUDs can be used during breastfeeding (4 or more weeks after delivery).
How is an IUD inserted?
Before installing the IUD, it is necessary to undergo examinations:
1. Ultrasound of the OMT and ultrasound of the breast
2. Tests for STIs
3. PAP TEST
The installation process itself takes about 20 minutes and takes place on the gynecological chair during the examination a. The IUD is inserted into the uterine cavity, while the control antennae remain in the vagina (for which the IUD is subsequently removed). They will not cause you discomfort, BUT you need to be careful when using tampons and removing them, because as a result of light pulling on the mustache, the spiral may shift and there will be no contraceptive effect.
IUD can also be used for nulliparous girls, but there is a risk of IUD prolapse, since the uterus in nulliparous women is smaller.
Advantages of IUD contraception.
- Long-term contraception: IUD effective for 5 years
- A reliable method of contraception
- No need to monitor the regularity of taking pills, or the position of the patch or vaginal ring
- Not as many side effects as with CHC, including IUD does not affect libido and does not increase the risk of thrombosis
- Hormonal IUD has a therapeutic effect in some gynecological pathologies (endometriosis, heavy menstruation, recurrent endometrial polyps)
- IUD can be used while breastfeeding
- Reasonably economical method of contraception
Disadvantages of using an intrauterine device.
- After insertion of the IUD for some time, 1-3 months may persist pain in the lower abdomen. During this period, you can use NSAIDs.
- With a copper-containing IUD, menstruation may become more profuse, so much so that the IUD has to be removed.
- There is a risk that the coil will fall out or move, usually within the first 3 months after installation. Therefore, if you feel that the IUD has fallen out or has shifted, contact your doctor immediately!
- It is not uncommon for intermenstrual bleeding to occur, which is uncomfortable but usually resolves within the first 2-3 months after insertion.
- Breast tenderness, headaches, and slight weight gain are common early-onset side effects after hormonal IUD insertion.
- There are risks of pelvic inflammatory disease, so it is important to be screened for STIs before inserting an IUD. If you are concerned about persistent pain in the lower abdomen or pain during intercourse, fever or abnormal discharge from the genital tract, then immediately contact your gynecologist.
- Although the IUD is a reliable method of contraception, BUT a low percentage of the likelihood of pregnancy still exists!
- Extremely rare, but it happens during the installation of the IUD, perforation of the uterus – this is damage to the muscular layer of the uterus by a spiral! To avoid such a situation, an ultrasound of the OMT and a measurement of the length of the uterine cavity are performed before the installation, and after the installation of the IUD, an ultrasound control is necessary!