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Iud use. IUD Birth Control: Comprehensive Guide to Mirena, Paragard, and Other Types

What are IUDs and how do they work. How effective are IUDs at preventing pregnancy. What are the different types of IUDs available. How long do IUDs last and can they be removed early. What are the potential side effects and benefits of using an IUD.

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Understanding IUDs: Types, Effectiveness, and Mechanisms

An Intrauterine Device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped contraceptive device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. IUDs are known for their high effectiveness, long-term protection, and reversibility. There are two main types of IUDs available in the United States: hormonal and non-hormonal (copper).

Types of IUDs

  • Hormonal IUDs: Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla
  • Non-hormonal IUD: Paragard (copper)

Hormonal IUDs release small amounts of progestin, a hormone similar to progesterone, while the Paragard IUD uses copper to prevent pregnancy. Each type has its own duration of effectiveness:

  • Paragard: Up to 12 years
  • Mirena: Up to 8 years
  • Kyleena: Up to 5 years
  • Liletta: Up to 8 years
  • Skyla: Up to 3 years

How do IUDs prevent pregnancy?

IUDs work by altering the way sperm cells move, making it difficult for them to reach and fertilize an egg. The copper in Paragard creates an environment that’s inhospitable to sperm. Hormonal IUDs have a dual mechanism: they thicken cervical mucus to block sperm and may also prevent ovulation in some cases.

IUD Effectiveness and Benefits

IUDs are among the most effective forms of birth control available. Their effectiveness rate exceeds 99%, making them more reliable than many other contraceptive methods. This high level of effectiveness is due to several factors:

  • Long-lasting protection
  • No room for user error
  • Continuous contraception

Do IUDs offer immediate protection? Most IUDs start working immediately after insertion, but it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider about when it’s safe to rely on the IUD for contraception.

Additional Benefits of IUDs

Beyond their primary function of preventing pregnancy, IUDs offer several other advantages:

  • Reversibility: Fertility returns quickly after removal
  • Low maintenance: No daily pill or regular appointments needed
  • Cost-effective: One-time insertion provides years of protection
  • Hormone-free option available (Paragard)
  • May reduce menstrual cramps and bleeding (hormonal IUDs)
  • Can be used while breastfeeding

IUD Insertion Process and What to Expect

The IUD insertion process is a relatively quick medical procedure performed by a healthcare professional. Understanding what to expect can help alleviate concerns and prepare patients for the experience.

Steps of IUD Insertion

  1. Medical history review and pregnancy test
  2. Pelvic exam to determine uterus position
  3. Cleansing of the cervix
  4. Measurement of the uterus
  5. Insertion of the IUD through the cervix into the uterus
  6. Trimming of IUD strings

Is IUD insertion painful? Many women experience some discomfort or cramping during and after insertion. The level of pain varies from person to person, but it’s typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Post-Insertion Care

After IUD insertion, it’s normal to experience some cramping and spotting. Patients should follow these guidelines:

  • Avoid tampons for 24-48 hours
  • Refrain from sexual intercourse for 24 hours
  • Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled
  • Check IUD strings regularly
  • Report any unusual symptoms to the healthcare provider

Potential Side Effects and Risks of IUDs

While IUDs are generally safe and well-tolerated, like all medical devices, they can cause side effects in some users. It’s important to be aware of potential risks and discuss them with a healthcare provider.

Common Side Effects

  • Cramping and pain after insertion
  • Irregular bleeding or spotting
  • Heavier periods (with copper IUDs)
  • Lighter or absent periods (with hormonal IUDs)
  • Hormonal side effects (with hormonal IUDs): mood changes, acne, breast tenderness

Rare but Serious Risks

Can IUDs cause serious complications? While rare, some serious risks associated with IUDs include:

  • Perforation of the uterus (occurs in about 1 in 1,000 insertions)
  • Expulsion of the IUD
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
  • Ectopic pregnancy (if pregnancy occurs with an IUD in place)

It’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention if experiencing severe pain, heavy bleeding, or signs of infection after IUD insertion.

IUDs as Emergency Contraception

In addition to their primary use as long-term contraception, certain IUDs can serve as highly effective emergency contraception when inserted within five days of unprotected intercourse.

IUDs for Emergency Contraception

  • Paragard (copper IUD)
  • Mirena
  • Liletta

How effective are IUDs as emergency contraception? When inserted within 120 hours (5 days) of unprotected sex, these IUDs are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, making them the most reliable form of emergency contraception available.

Advantages of IUDs as Emergency Contraception

  • Highest effectiveness rate among emergency contraception methods
  • Provides ongoing contraception for years after insertion
  • Non-hormonal option available (Paragard)
  • Can be used by women who can’t take estrogen-based contraceptives

Comparing IUDs to emergency contraceptive pills, IUDs offer the additional benefit of long-term protection, eliminating the need for further emergency measures in the future.

Choosing Between Hormonal and Non-Hormonal IUDs

The decision between hormonal and non-hormonal IUDs depends on individual health factors, preferences, and contraceptive needs. Understanding the differences can help in making an informed choice.

Hormonal IUDs (Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, Skyla)

Pros:

  • May reduce menstrual bleeding and cramps
  • Can help with conditions like endometriosis
  • Different sizes and hormone levels available

Cons:

  • Possible hormonal side effects
  • May cause irregular bleeding initially

Non-Hormonal IUD (Paragard)

Pros:

  • Hormone-free option
  • Longest-lasting (up to 12 years)
  • Immediately effective after insertion

Cons:

  • May increase menstrual bleeding and cramps
  • Not suitable for women with copper allergies

Which IUD is best for you? The choice depends on factors such as desired duration of use, tolerance for potential side effects, and personal health history. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help in making the most suitable decision.

IUD Removal Process and Fertility After IUD Use

One of the key advantages of IUDs is their reversibility. Understanding the removal process and what to expect regarding fertility after IUD use can help users make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

IUD Removal Procedure

The IUD removal process is typically quick and straightforward:

  1. The healthcare provider locates the IUD strings using a speculum
  2. The strings are gently pulled, causing the IUD arms to fold up
  3. The IUD is carefully removed through the cervix

Is IUD removal painful? Most women experience little to no pain during removal. Some may feel slight discomfort or cramping, which usually subsides quickly.

Fertility After IUD Removal

IUDs do not have a long-term impact on fertility. After removal:

  • Fertility typically returns immediately
  • Ovulation can occur as soon as the first cycle after removal
  • There’s no increased risk of infertility or pregnancy complications

How soon can you get pregnant after IUD removal? It’s possible to conceive immediately after IUD removal. If pregnancy is not desired, alternative contraception should be used right away.

Cost Considerations and Insurance Coverage for IUDs

While the upfront cost of an IUD can seem high, it’s often more cost-effective than other forms of birth control over time. Understanding the costs involved and potential insurance coverage can help in financial planning.

IUD Costs Without Insurance

The cost of an IUD without insurance can vary:

  • Hormonal IUDs: $500 to $1,300
  • Copper IUD: $500 to $1,000

These costs typically include the device itself and the insertion procedure. Additional costs may include office visits and follow-up care.

Insurance Coverage for IUDs

Many insurance plans cover IUDs under the Affordable Care Act:

  • Most private insurance plans cover IUDs at 100%
  • Medicaid in most states covers IUDs
  • Some clinics offer sliding scale fees based on income

How can you find out if your insurance covers IUDs? Contact your insurance provider directly to inquire about coverage for specific IUD brands and associated procedures.

Long-Term Cost-Effectiveness

Despite the higher upfront cost, IUDs can be more economical over time:

  • No ongoing costs for years after insertion
  • May eliminate expenses for monthly contraceptives
  • Cost per year decreases the longer the IUD is used

When considering the cost-effectiveness of IUDs, it’s important to factor in their high efficacy rate and the potential savings from avoiding unintended pregnancies.

IUD Myths and Misconceptions Debunked

Despite their safety and effectiveness, IUDs are sometimes subject to myths and misconceptions. Addressing these can help potential users make informed decisions based on facts rather than misinformation.

Common IUD Myths

  1. Myth: IUDs cause infertility

    Fact: IUDs do not affect long-term fertility. Once removed, fertility returns to normal almost immediately.

  2. Myth: IUDs are only for women who have had children

    Fact: IUDs are safe and effective for most women, regardless of whether they’ve given birth.

  3. Myth: IUDs can cause abortions

    Fact: IUDs prevent fertilization and implantation; they do not terminate existing pregnancies.

  4. Myth: IUDs frequently move out of place or get lost in the body

    Fact: IUD expulsion is rare, occurring in only about 3-5% of cases. IUDs cannot travel to other parts of the body.

  5. Myth: Partners can feel the IUD during sex

    Fact: While partners might occasionally feel the IUD strings, they cannot feel the device itself.

Do IUDs increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy? Actually, IUDs significantly reduce the overall risk of pregnancy, including ectopic pregnancies. However, in the rare event that pregnancy occurs with an IUD in place, there is a higher chance it could be ectopic.

Addressing Concerns About IUD Safety

IUDs have evolved significantly since their introduction, and modern IUDs are considered very safe. Key points about IUD safety include:

  • Rigorous testing and FDA approval
  • Low risk of serious complications
  • Regular monitoring and studies on long-term safety
  • Reversibility and quick return to fertility

By dispelling myths and providing accurate information, healthcare providers can help patients make confident decisions about using IUDs for contraception.

IUD Birth Control | Info About Mirena & Paragard 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?

What is an IUD? Learn About IUD Effectiveness | Planned Parenthood Video

What’s an IUD?

An IUD is a tiny device that’s put into your uterus to prevent pregnancy. It’s long-term, reversible, and one of the most effective birth control methods out there.

What does IUD stand for?

IUD stands for Intrauterine Device (basically: a device inside your uterus). It’s a small piece of flexible plastic shaped like a T. Sometimes it’s called an IUC — intrauterine contraception.

What are the types of IUDs?

There are 5 different brands of IUDs that are FDA approved for use in the United States:

  1. Paragard,
  2. Mirena,
  3. Kyleena,
  4. Liletta, and
  5. Skyla.

These IUDs are divided into 2 types:

  1. hormonal IUDs (Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla).
  2. copper IUDs (Paragard) and

The Paragard IUD doesn’t have hormones. It’s wrapped in a tiny bit of copper, and it protects you from pregnancy for up to 12 years.

The Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla IUDs use the hormone progestin to prevent pregnancy. Progestin is very similar to the hormone progesterone that our bodies make naturally. Mirena works for up to 8 years. Kyleena works for up to 5 years. Liletta works for up to 8 years. Skyla works for up to 3 years.

How do IUDs work?

Both copper IUDs and hormonal IUDs prevent pregnancy by changing the way sperm cells move so they can’t get to an egg. If sperm can’t make it to an egg, pregnancy can’t happen.

The Paragard IUD uses copper to prevent pregnancy. Sperm doesn’t like copper, so the Paragard IUD makes it almost impossible for sperm to get to that egg.

The hormones in the Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla IUDs prevent pregnancy in two ways: 1) they thicken the mucus that lives on the cervix, which blocks and traps the sperm, and 2) the hormones also sometimes 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 to get pregnant or you just don’t want to have your IUD anymore, your nurse or doctor can quickly and easily take it out. You’re able to get pregnant right after the IUD is removed.

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 to12 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.

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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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What is the Effectiveness of the IUD?

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?

The IUD is almost mistake-proof, making it one of the most effective methods available.

How effective are IUDs when used as birth control?

IUDs are one of the best birth control methods out there — more than 99% effective. That means fewer than 1 out of 100 people who use an IUD will get pregnant each year.

IUDs are so effective because there’s no chance of making a mistake. You can’t forget to take it (like the pill), or use it incorrectly (like condoms). And you’re protected from pregnancy 24/7 for 3 to 12 years, depending on which kind you get. Once your IUD is in place, you can pretty much forget about it until it expires. You can keep track of your insertion and removal date using our birth control app. 

How effective are IUDs when used as emergency contraception?

The Paragard (copper), Mirena, and Liletta IUDs are the most effective method of emergency contraception available. If you get one of these IUDs put in within 120 hours (5 days) after having unprotected sex, it’s more than 99.9% effective at preventing pregnancy. Then, if you want to, 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).

Do IUDs protect against STDs?

No, IUDs don’t protect against STDs. Luckily, using condoms or internal condoms every time you have sex does lower the chance of getting or spreading STDs. So using condoms with your IUD is the way to go.

Was this page helpful?

  • Yes

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Help us improve – how could this information be more helpful?

How did this information help you?

Please answer below.

Are you human? (Sorry, we have to ask!)

Please don’t check this box if you are a human.

You’re the best! Thanks for your feedback.

Thanks for your feedback.

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

Implant

Internal Condom

IUD

The Patch

The Pill

The Ring

The Shot

Spermicide

Sponge

Sterilization

Vasectomy

Withdrawal

We couldn’t access your location, please search for a location.

Zip, City, or State

Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code or city or state.

Please fill out this field.

Service
All Services
Abortion

Abortion Referrals

Birth Control

COVID-19 Vaccine

HIV Services

Men’s Health Care

Mental Health

Morning-After Pill (Emergency Contraception)

Pregnancy Testing & Services

Primary Care

STD Testing, Treatment & Vaccines

Transgender Hormone Therapy

Women’s Health Care

Filter By
All
Telehealth
In-person

Please enter your age and the first day of your last period for more accurate abortion options. Your information is private and anonymous.

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Or call
1-800-230-7526

Hello! I use in English with examples

Hello! I use in English with examples

From professional translators, enterprises, web pages and freely available translation repositories.

Add a translation

Russian

English
Hello! I use

English

hello, i’m using

Last Update: 2023-03-31

Usage Frequency: 1
Quality:



Reference: Anonymous

English

I use.

English

Yes.

Last Update: 2018-02-21

Usage Frequency: 1
Quality:



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English

I am using this.

English

i use it.

Last Update: 2014-02-01

Usage Frequency: 1
Quality:



Reference: Anonymous

English

i use this:

English

i use this:

Last Update: 2018-02-21

Usage Frequency: 1
Quality:



Reference: Anonymous

English

I use tools

English

I’m using tool

Last Update: 2020-11-06

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Quality:



Reference: Anonymous

English

Hello, I’m Kristin

English

i’m doing this research

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Usage Frequency: 1
Quality:



Reference: Anonymous

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Hello, I’m Sepide.

English

hello, i am sepideh.

Last Update: 2014-02-01

Usage Frequency: 1
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Reference: Anonymous

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Hi all! I use

English

hallo! ich verwende

Last Update: 2022-05-12

Usage Frequency: 1
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Reference: Anonymous

English

Hello. I am a pathologist.

English

i’m looking for: i’m looking for: a man aged 35 to 46 for starting a family.

Last Update: 2018-02-21

Usage Frequency: 1
Quality:



Reference: Anonymous

English

I use gender pair

English

i’m using the gender binary

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Hello, I’m Cave Johnson

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2. I use im pro.

English

2. I use im pro.

Last Update: 2018-02-21

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Reference: Anonymous

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Hello, I’m Tom Taylor

English

tom taylor

Last Update: 2020-11-10

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Reference: Anonymous

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I am using the free version

English

i use a free version

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Reference: Anonymous

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Yes, I use my skill

English

yeah i’m going to use my skill here

Last Update: 2022-05-20

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Reference: Anonymous

English

I use the gadget often. Crap!

English

total dumb. it was a free gadget!!! hope there is a fix to something i read was for free. i use the gadget frequently. damn!

Last Update: 2018-02-21

Usage Frequency: 1
Quality:



Reference: Anonymous

English

Hello! I am Tomoko Sato from Japan

English

hello, i’m tomoko sato from japan

Last Update: 2020-11-06

Usage Frequency: 1
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Reference: Anonymous

English

Hello, I would like to ask. ..

English

hello, i would like to ask… for specialist: adelė petruninaitė

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Here I am using blue balloons

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i use blue balloons here

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Hello. I’m glad to be here today

English

hi, it’s a pleasure to be here

Last Update: 2020-11-06

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“Hello everyone! I use Whatsapp” – how to remove the status on Android, iPhone, PC

WhatsAppServices

November 4, 2021 etc. Many users who go to WhatsApp from Telegram or other messengers do not understand why a noticeable number of people have the message “Hi everyone! I use Whatsapp. In this article, we will answer this question.

Table of contents

What does “Hello everyone! I use Whatsapp”

Message “Hello everyone! I use Whatsapp” is a standard messenger status. It is installed for all new users, and then it can be changed if necessary. We will describe how to change the status below.

Please note:

Many WhatsApp users do not even notice that they have this status set.

The status is set directly to the user profile. When another person goes to their profile page, they see this standard message.

Note that the status “Hello everyone! I use Whatsapp” is the same as “Hey there! I am using whatsapp. ” In English, the status option can be set if the user initially selected the English version of the messenger during setup, or if his phone is set to English.

Important:

As you can see, the text “Hello everyone! I use Whatsapp” is just a translation of “Hey there! I am using WhatsApp” from English.

How to remove the message “Hello everyone! I use Whatsapp”

Remove the message “Hello everyone! I use Whatsapp” in Whatsapp you can use your phone or any other version of the messenger. Let’s consider three options – one for the iPhone, the second for the mobile device with Android and the third for the web version on the computer.

From iPhone

Open the official WhatsApp application on your smartphone.

Next, at the bottom, switch to the “Settings” section and click on your name.

In the “Details” item, the standard Whatsapp message is set – “Hi everyone! I use Whatsapp” or “Hey there! I am using whatsapp.” Click on it.

In the upper right corner, select Edit.

Please note:

If you don’t want to set your own status, just select one of the available quick status options – just click on it. A quick status on WhatsApp can be useful if you need to inform potential interlocutors about something, for example, that you are currently busy and cannot receive voice calls.

Now click on the current status again to edit it.

Enter the new status you want to set and click Save in the top right corner.

The new status will replace the previous one.

From Android

In the WhatsApp app, tap on the 3 dots in the top right corner.

Go to the “Settings” section.

Here, click on your name – the top menu item.

Next, click on the pencil icon next to the “Details” subsection.

Select one of the available status options or write a new status yourself.

You will now have a new WhatsApp status set instead of the standard “Hello everyone! I use Whatsapp” or “Hey there! I am using whatsapp.