Do IUDs cause weight gain. How do different types of IUDs affect body weight. What are the potential side effects of hormonal and non-hormonal IUDs. Which IUD is best for avoiding weight gain. How do IUDs compare to other birth control methods in terms of weight changes.

The Evolution of Birth Control and Weight Gain Concerns

The relationship between birth control and weight gain has been a topic of discussion for decades. This concern stems largely from the early days of oral contraceptives when higher hormone doses were common. The first birth control pill, Enovid, introduced in 1960, contained significantly higher levels of hormones compared to modern contraceptives.

Early versions of the pill contained up to 10,000 micrograms of progestin and 150 micrograms of estrogen. In contrast, today’s low-dose pills typically contain 50-150 micrograms of progestin and 20-50 micrograms of estrogen. This substantial reduction in hormone levels has led to fewer side effects, including those related to weight gain.

Hormonal IUDs and Their Effect on Body Weight

Hormonal IUDs, such as Mirena, Skyla, Liletta, and Kyleena, release small amounts of progestin directly into the uterus. These devices are designed to provide long-term contraception without the need for daily pills or frequent doctor visits. But do they contribute to weight gain?

Research suggests that hormonal IUDs generally do not cause significant weight gain. However, some users may experience temporary water retention or bloating due to the progestin released by these devices. This effect is typically mild and similar to the bloating some women experience during their menstrual cycle.

Comparing Hormonal IUDs

• Mirena: Lasts up to 7 years, releases 20 mcg of levonorgestrel daily
• Skyla: Lasts up to 3 years, releases 14 mcg of levonorgestrel daily
• Liletta: Lasts up to 7 years, releases 18.6 mcg of levonorgestrel daily
• Kyleena: Lasts up to 5 years, releases 17.5 mcg of levonorgestrel daily

While these hormonal IUDs differ slightly in their hormone release and duration of effectiveness, they all work similarly and have comparable effects on body weight.

Non-Hormonal IUDs: A Weight-Neutral Option?

For those concerned about hormonal effects on weight, the copper IUD (Paragard) offers a non-hormonal alternative. Paragard works by releasing small amounts of copper into the uterus, creating an environment that’s inhospitable to sperm.

As Paragard doesn’t contain hormones, it’s unlikely to cause weight changes related to hormonal fluctuations. However, it’s important to note that individual experiences may vary, and other factors can influence weight regardless of contraceptive choice.

Debunking the Birth Control Weight Gain Myth

Despite persistent beliefs, modern research suggests that most forms of hormonal birth control, including IUDs, do not directly cause significant weight gain. A 2015 report published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews found no strong evidence linking hormonal contraceptives to weight changes.

Dr. Alyssa Dweck, assistant clinical professor of obstetrics at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, states, “The Pill gets a bad rap. In reality, you shouldn’t experience significant weight gain on hormonal methods like the Pill and similar forms like NuvaRing.”

Factors That May Contribute to Perceived Weight Gain

While IUDs and other forms of birth control may not directly cause weight gain, several factors can contribute to the perception of weight changes:

1. Water retention: Hormonal fluctuations can lead to temporary fluid retention, which may be mistaken for fat gain.
2. Bloating: Some women experience increased bloating, particularly in the initial months of using a new contraceptive.
3. Changes in appetite: Hormonal changes may affect appetite in some individuals, potentially leading to increased calorie intake.
4. Natural weight fluctuations: Weight can vary due to numerous factors unrelated to birth control, including age, lifestyle changes, and overall health.

The Exception: Depo-Provera and Weight Gain

While most hormonal contraceptives don’t significantly impact weight, the Depo-Provera shot is an exception. This injectable form of birth control, administered every three months, contains a higher dose of progestin compared to other methods.

Dr. Idries Abdur-Rahman, a board-certified ob/gyn, explains, “It’s a relatively high dose of the hormone because it needs to protect you for a few months at a time. The thinking is that Depo makes you hungrier, which can lead to weight gain.”

Studies have shown that some women using Depo-Provera may experience more substantial weight gain compared to other contraceptive methods. This effect is not universal, but it’s a consideration for those choosing between different birth control options.

Choosing the Right IUD: Considerations Beyond Weight

When selecting an IUD, weight considerations are just one factor among many. Other important aspects to consider include:

• Duration of effectiveness
• Hormone sensitivity
• Menstrual cycle effects
• Personal health history
• Desire for future pregnancy

It’s crucial to have an open discussion with a healthcare provider to determine which IUD or contraceptive method aligns best with individual needs and preferences.

Managing Weight While Using an IUD

For those concerned about potential weight changes while using an IUD, there are several strategies to maintain a healthy weight:

1. Monitor diet and exercise regularly
2. Stay hydrated to minimize water retention
3. Track any changes in appetite or eating patterns
4. Maintain open communication with a healthcare provider about any concerns
5. Consider non-hormonal options if weight changes persist

Remember that weight fluctuations are normal and can be influenced by many factors beyond contraception. Focusing on overall health and well-being is more important than minor changes on the scale.

The Importance of Individualized Birth Control Choices

Every person’s body responds differently to hormonal and non-hormonal birth control methods. What works well for one individual may not be the best choice for another. This variability underscores the importance of personalized contraceptive counseling.

Dr. Abdur-Rahman emphasizes, “The short answer is that [hormonal birth control] usually doesn’t cause weight gain, but it can. It’s kind of an old wives’ tale, because when birth control pills first came out, there was a lot of trial and error with pharmaceutical companies.”

Today’s lower-dose options and varied delivery methods provide a range of choices to suit different needs and preferences. Whether opting for a hormonal IUD like Liletta or a non-hormonal option like Paragard, the decision should be based on a comprehensive understanding of potential benefits and side effects.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an IUD

• Effectiveness rate
• Duration of protection
• Hormone sensitivity
• Menstrual cycle preferences
• Side effect profile
• Cost and insurance coverage
• Ease of use and lifestyle compatibility

By carefully weighing these factors and discussing options with a healthcare provider, individuals can make informed decisions about their contraceptive choices, including whether an IUD is the right option for them.

The Role of Patient Education in Contraceptive Success

Accurate information and education play crucial roles in contraceptive success and satisfaction. Misconceptions about weight gain and other side effects can lead to premature discontinuation of effective birth control methods. Healthcare providers have a responsibility to provide comprehensive counseling and address patient concerns about potential side effects, including weight changes.

Patients should feel empowered to ask questions, report any unusual symptoms, and seek clarification about their chosen contraceptive method. This open dialogue can help dispel myths, manage expectations, and ensure that individuals are using the most appropriate form of birth control for their unique circumstances.

Tips for Effective Contraceptive Counseling

1. Discuss all available options, including pros and cons
2. Address common misconceptions and fears
3. Provide clear information about potential side effects
4. Offer resources for further reading and support
5. Encourage follow-up appointments to assess satisfaction and address concerns

By fostering an environment of open communication and informed decision-making, healthcare providers can help patients find the most suitable contraceptive method while minimizing concerns about side effects like weight gain.

Future Directions in Contraceptive Research and Development

As our understanding of reproductive health and hormonal interactions continues to evolve, so too does the field of contraceptive development. Researchers are constantly working on new methods and refining existing ones to provide more options with fewer side effects.

Some areas of ongoing research include:

• Development of non-hormonal contraceptive methods
• Improved hormone delivery systems to minimize systemic effects
• Personalized contraception based on individual genetic profiles
• Male contraceptive options to expand family planning choices
• Long-acting reversible contraceptives with even longer durations of effectiveness

These advancements aim to provide more tailored contraceptive solutions that can address individual needs and preferences while minimizing unwanted side effects, including concerns about weight gain.

As research progresses, it’s likely that future contraceptive options will offer even more precise control over hormone levels and delivery methods. This could potentially lead to contraceptives that have an even lower likelihood of affecting body weight or other aspects of physical well-being.

Conclusion: Balancing Contraceptive Needs and Weight Concerns

The relationship between IUDs, particularly hormonal options like Liletta, and weight gain is complex and often misunderstood. While historical forms of hormonal contraception may have contributed to weight changes, modern IUDs and other low-dose hormonal methods are generally not associated with significant weight gain.

For those concerned about potential weight effects, options like the copper IUD (Paragard) offer highly effective, non-hormonal contraception. However, it’s important to remember that individual experiences may vary, and factors unrelated to birth control can influence weight fluctuations.

Ultimately, the choice of contraception should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of personal health needs, lifestyle factors, and individual preferences. Open communication with healthcare providers, coupled with accurate information and ongoing research, can help individuals make informed decisions about their reproductive health while maintaining overall well-being.

As contraceptive technology continues to advance, the goal remains to provide effective birth control options that minimize side effects and maximize user satisfaction. Whether choosing Liletta, another IUD, or a different form of contraception altogether, the key is to find a method that aligns with individual health goals and lifestyle needs.

Birth Control And Weight Gain: Does A Link Exist?

Although homework is usually best left for school, it’s key if you’re trying to decide on which contraception is best for you. When you’re mulling over your birth control options, there’s a lot to consider: hormones or no hormones? Are you on top of your sh*t enough to take something every day, or is a “set it and forget it” method like an IUD more up your alley? And, of course, there are the potential side effects, like mood shifts, irregular periods, and…weight gain?

You may have heard the rumor that hormonal birth control can affect the number on the scale. It’s a popular one, ob/gyns say. “I have a lot of patients who come in and say the Pill made them gain weight,” Idries Abdur-Rahman, M.D., a board-certified ob/gyn, tells SELF. But the truth is, it probably didn’t.

The confusion around birth control and weight gain is largely rooted in the first Pill’s effects.

“The short answer is that [hormonal birth control] usually doesn’t cause weight gain, but it can,” says Abdur-Rahman. “It’s kind of old wives’ tale, because when birth control pills first came out, there was a lot of trial and error with pharmaceutical companies,” he explains.

In 1960, the first birth control pill, Enovid, made its debut. “[It] had a lot more hormones in it than needed to prevent pregnancy,” says Planned Parenthood. “It contained 10,000 micrograms of progestin and 150 micrograms of estrogen. In comparison, today’s lower-dose pills are more likely to contain 50–150 micrograms of progestin and 20–50 micrograms of estrogen.”

But those new lower-dose pills weren’t introduced until the 1980s, according to PBS. Before that, there was plenty of time for Enovid to make a name for itself. “Early critics of the Pill were right that a lot could be done to improve it. Among the millions of women using the Pill worldwide, there were disturbing reports of nausea, breast tenderness, water retention, and weight gain,” says Planned Parenthood.

But things are different now.

“The Pill gets a bad rap,” Alyssa Dweck, M. D., assistant clinical professor of obstetrics at Mount Sinai School of Medicine and co-author of V is For Vagina, tells SELF. In reality, you shouldn’t experience significant weight gain on hormonal methods like the Pill and similar forms like NuvaRing, she says.

Also, although a 2015 report of published in Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews found that “the evidence was not strong enough to be sure that these methods did not cause some weight change,” they still “found no major effect [from birth control] on weight.”

Hormonal IUDs and the Nexplanon implant also shouldn’t cause actual weight gain.

IUD options like Mirena, Skyla, and Liletta release progestin, which can make your jeans feel a little tighter. “All of these can create a little bloating because progestin can make you you retain some water,” says Abdur-Rahman. (The same goes for the Pill and the implant.) But it shouldn’t be a huge amount—more like the type of bloating you would otherwise potentially experience during your period anyway.

The only major exception to this rule is the Depo-Provera shot.

Depo-Provera involves getting a shot of progestin every three months. “It’s a relatively high dose of the hormone” because it needs to protect you for a few months at a time, says Abdur-Rahman, who explains that the thinking is that Depo makes you hungrier, which can lead to weight gain.

Comparing Mirena, Paragard, Skyla, Liletta, Kyleena

Both hormonal and copper (nonhormonal) IUDs are effective methods of birth control. The key differences between Mirena, Skyla, Liletta, Kyleena, and Paragard (a nonhormonal option) are what they’re made of, how they work, how long they last, and possible side effects.

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Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are an extremely effective method of birth control. An IUD is a small, T-shaped device that’s placed in your uterus. It must be prescribed by a doctor, who will place it in your uterus during an outpatient procedure.

Five brands of IUDs approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are available today. Mirena, Skyla, Liletta, and Kyleena release hormones to prevent pregnancy. Paragard contains copper and doesn’t release hormones.

Which one could be right for you? Let’s compare Mirena, Skyla, Liletta, Kyleena, and Paragard to explore how these IUDs are similar and different.

Learn about what it feels like to have an IUD.

IUDs are long-term birth control. They can stay implanted in your uterus for several years. However, they can be easily removed if you want to become pregnant.

IUDs are made of a plastic called polyethylene. They’re T-shaped, with a string attached to the bottom of the T. The string makes it easier for a doctor to remove the IUD. The string also helps you know that it’s still in place when you check it each month.

An IUD is a form of birth control. It’s about the size of a quarter and is inserted into the uterus, where it stays for several years to prevent pregnancy. There are hormonal and nonhormonal options available.

Inserting an IUD is done by a doctor, and the process only takes a few minutes. The procedure can be painful or uncomfortable. Side effects may include cramping, backaches, dizziness, and discomfort. Some people experience these side effects for a couple of days after insertion, while others experience them for weeks or months.

The IUD can be removed quickly by a doctor if you want to become pregnant or if it expires and needs to be replaced.

Most IUDs start working immediately after insertion, though some take around 7 days to become effective.

You can still have sex and use tampons with an IUD. You may also continue to menstruate, though some people experience a lighter or heavier flow. Some people experience no period at all with an IUD.

A note on pricing

We included average pricing information for each IUD brand without insurance coverage. But if you’re insured, the price will vary on your coverage and what your network covers.

Additionally, if you don’t have health insurance, there are options to help you pay for birth control out of pocket. You may be able to apply for financial assistance or enroll in a co-pay savings program.

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There are five options to choose from: Mirena, Skyla, Liletta, Kyleena, and Paragard. They can be divided into two main types: hormonal and copper (nonhormonal).

Mirena

• Average pricing: $1,049.24 without insurance ($12.49 a month over a 7-year period or $17.49 over a 5-year period)
• Type: Hormonal
• How long it works: 7 years
• Failure rate: 0.2%

Mirena works by slowly releasing the hormone levonorgestrel (LNG) into your body each day. It can last for up to 7 years and should be replaced at the end of the cycle.

It works to prevent pregnancy by:

1. Potentially making you ovulate less often
2. Thickening cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to pass into your uterus
3. Helping to prevent sperm from binding to an egg and attaching to your uterus

Some common side effects include:

• 3 to 6 months of spotting or irregular periods
• lighter periods
• irregular cycles
• potential to stop periods after a year

You may also experience pain, bleeding, or dizziness before or after placement.

Learn more about Mirena inourreviewhere.

Pros

• Lasts for up to 7 years
• Can make periods lighter and less frequent
• Highly effective

Cons

• Expensive without insurance
• May cause physical and mental health side effects

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Skyla

• Average pricing: $1,291.75 without insurance
• Type: Hormonal
• How long it works: 3 years
• Failure rate: 0.2%

Skyla works to prevent pregnancy using the same mechanisms as Mirena, also releasing the hormone LNG. The main difference, however, is that it needs to be replaced every three years instead of seven.

Common side effects of Skyla can include:

• headache or migraine
• missed menstrual periods
• changes in bleeding
• ovarian cysts
• painful periods
• inflammation of the uterus

Pros

• Begins to work immediately
• May help to treat heavy menstrual bleeding
• Highly effective

Cons

• Expensive without insurance
• Need to replace more frequently than other IUD options

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Liletta

• Average pricing: $899 without insurance
• Type: Hormonal
• How long it works: 6 years
• Failure rate: 0. 2 percent

Liletta works by slowly releasing low doses of LNG into your body. It lasts for 6 years. It was approved by the FDA in February 2015, but it’s one of the newer IUD options on the market.

Some side effects of Liletta may include:

• cramps
• irregular menstrual periods
• spotting
• headache
• nausea
• breast tenderness
• weight gain

Pros

• Longer-lasting hormonal IUD option
• May lighten or eliminate periods
• Highly effective

Cons

• Hasn’t been studied as much as other IUDs
• Can be expensive without insurance

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Kyleena

• Average pricing: $1,049.24 without insurance ($17.49 a month over a 5-year period)
• Type: Hormonal
• How long it works: 5 years
• Failure rate: 0.2%

Kyleena also works by slowly releasing low doses of LNG into your body, lasting 5 years in duration. Kyleena was approved by the FDA in September 2016, and like Liletta, hasn’t been researched as extensively.

Some common side effects of Kyleena include:

• vaginal itching or discharge
• ovarian cysts
• headache or migraine
• acne
• breast pain or discomfort

Pros

• Lasts 5 years
• Lower hormone option than birth control pills

Cons

• Expensive without insurance
• Can cause same physical side effects as other hormonal IUDs

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Paragard

• Average pricing: $941 without insurance
• Type: Non-hormonal
• How long it works: 10 years
• Failure rate: 0.8%

Paragard has copper coiled around the vertical stem of the T-shape and around each side of the horizontal arm. The copper produces an inflammatory reaction within your uterus, creating a harmful environment for sperm. This environment helps prevent the sperm from fertilizing an egg and may prevent an egg from attaching to your uterus.

Paragard IUDs can last for up to 10 years, but they can be removed at any time. They are also effective immediately after insertion and can also be used as a form of emergency contraception after having sex without a barrier method if inserted within 5 days.

Paragard side effects may include:

• anemia
• spotting
• pain during sex
• painful periods
• prolonged periods
• vaginal irritation or discharge

Pros

• Longest-lasting IUD
• Can work as a form of emergency contraception
• Good option for those wanting to avoid hormones

Cons

• Expensive without insurance
• May cause longer and heavier periods, as well as cramping

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Of the different forms of contraception, an IUD is among the least common. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 10. 4 percent of women ages 15 through 49 rely on IUDs or implants, compared with 14 percent who use the pill and 18.1 percent who rely on female sterilization.

However, the IUD has its perks that can’t be overlooked.

The IUD is highly effective. It’s more than 99 percent effective. While it’s still possible to become pregnant with an IUD, the chances are less likely than other forms of birth control.

It also lasts for several years. Aside from sterilization and male condoms, oral contraception is the most popular option among women. However, the pill must be taken daily. An IUD is a one-time procedure that lasts for up to 10 years, depending on the type.

Hormonal IUDs have benefits related to female reproductive health aside from contraception. They’re often prescribed to women with endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, and heavy periods.

Many women also opt for hormonal IUDs since they may lessen period pain, reduce period frequency, or get rid of your period altogether.

Once you’ve decided to use an IUD as your primary form of birth control, you have five options to choose from: Mirena, Skyla, Liletta, Kyleena, and Paragard.

Deciding whether you want a hormonal or nonhormonal IUD can help you narrow down your choices. There are benefits and risks of both. If you decide to go the hormone-free route, your choice is simple, as there’s only one option: Paragard. If you prefer hormonal IUDs, your choices include Mirena, Skyla, Liletta, and Kyleena.

Hormonal IUDs

Hormonal IUDs work by releasing the hormone progestin. This prevents pregnancy in two ways:

1. The mucus in the cervix thickens, which prevents sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg.
2. The lining of the uterus becomes thinner, which partially suppresses ovulation.

Hormonal IUDs don’t last as long as nonhormonal options. The time varies, but a hormonal IUD can last for up to 7 years.

The primary function of a hormonal IUD is contraception, but they have noncontraceptive benefits, such as reducing menstrual pain and menstrual frequency. Hormonal IUDs are often prescribed for those who experience endometriosis, severe menstrual pain or bleeding, anemia, and other conditions. A hormonal IUD may also reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.

There are four hormonal IUDs: Mirena, Skyla, Liletta, and Kyleena. Their main differences include size, duration, and amount of hormones released. It may take up to 7 days for hormonal IUDs to become effective depending on the time they’re inserted in relation to your menstrual cycle.

The duration of effectiveness is a point of consideration for many. Copper IUDs last the longest. Paragard can last for up to 10 years before needing to be replaced or removed, while hormonal IUDs last between 3 and 6 years. Of the hormonal options, Skyla lasts the shortest (3 years) and Mirena lasts the longest (7 years). Liletta lasts for 6 years and Kyleena lasts for 5 years.

There may be a cost associated with getting an IUD. There are ways to get free or low-cost IUDs, but the procedure and office visit may increase those costs. Without insurance, IUDs cost between $500 and $1,300 out of pocket. Liletta is the least expensive and Paragard is the most expensive, though the price differences aren’t significant.

Copper IUDs can be used as emergency contraception, but hormonal IUDs can’t. If you have unprotected sex, you can choose to use the Paragard IUD as a form of emergency contraception if it’s inserted with 5 days.

Mirena, Skyla, Liletta, and Kyleena have similar side effects. You may have changes in your period, such as increased menstrual bleeding, discomfort, or no period at all. You may also have:

• acne
• headache
• breast tenderness
• ovarian cysts
• depressed mood
• pain in your abdomen or pelvic area

With Paragard, you may have an allergic reaction to the copper. Other side effects include:

• heavy menstrual bleeding
• discomfort
• a longer period
• backaches and cramps when you’re not having a period

All five devices can also fall out or shift position. This can increase your risk of pregnancy. They could also tear your uterus. In addition, all five can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), but this is rare. If you have multiple sexual partners, this method of pregnancy prevention may not be your best choice.

Learn 11 tips to conquer your IUD side effects.

Results from a 2015 study have shown that these three IUDs have similar effectiveness. Both the copper and hormonal IUDs are more effective at preventing pregnancies than other forms of birth control, besides sterilization.

Overall, IUDs are more than 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. This means that fewer than 1 in 100 women who use an IUD gets pregnant each year.

If you do get pregnant while using an IUD, there’s a slight risk you could experience an ectopic pregnancy. However, the risk of ectopic pregnancy when not using an IUD is higher.

There’s also a small risk that the IUD may shift position or fall out. This can increase the risk of unwanted pregnancy. Learn what to do if your IUD falls out.

Certain health conditions can cause issues if you use a hormonal IUD or copper IUD. Don’t use any IUD if you have liver disease or if you have or have had the following conditions:

• cervical, breast, or uterine cancer
• PID
• unexplained uterine bleeding

You’ll have to make an appointment with an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) to have your IUD inserted. Your doctor will most likely talk through your medical history and any possible side effects you may experience during or after insertion.

Once your IUD has been inserted, you shouldn’t feel it. If you feel sudden discomfort or cramping and think your IUD has shifted or slipped, you should contact your doctor for an appointment.

You should see your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• fever
• intense cramping
• abnormal discharge
• suddenly heavy bleeding

Can an IUD make you gain weight?

Although it’s a common belief that IUDs can cause weight gain, a 2019 study found that copper IUDs don’t affect weight. Additionally, according to the National Center of Biotechnology Information, hormonal birth control most likely won’t cause you to gain a lot of weight.

If you’re concerned about gaining weight on birth control, it’s best to talk to your doctor, who can help you decide on the best form of contraceptive for your lifestyle.

Does an IUD or birth control pills alter hormones more?

Since hormones are slowly released with hormonal IUDs, they can be a better option for patients wanting lower doses of hormones than what they’d get with birth control pills. Unlike many pills, they also don’t contain estrogen.

Can you get pregnant with an IUD?

IUDs are one of the most effective methods of birth control, offering 99% efficacy. But no method is 100% effective and, while unlikely, it is possible to get pregnant with an IUD.

Getting pregnant with an IUD also increases your chances of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, so you should see your doctor immediately if you suspect you may be pregnant.

The key differences between Mirena, Skyla, Liletta, Kyleena, and Paragard are what they’re made of, how they work, how long they last, and possible side effects.

For instance, Mirena, Skyla, Liletta, and Kyleena release hormones into your body. If you prefer to avoid hormones, you might choose Paragard.

However, the hormones in Mirena, Skyla, Liletta, and Kyleena are only released in one part of your body. They don’t have the same kind of broad effect as the hormones in birth control pills, which are delivered through your bloodstream.

On the other hand, if you already have heavy bleeding and cramping during your period, you may not want to use Paragard, which could worsen your bleeding.

To find out more about IUDs, talk with a doctor. They can give you more information about these devices and point you toward an IUD that may work well for you. Be sure to ask a doctor any questions you might have, such as:

• Are there any benefits to the hormonal IUDs Liletta or Kyleena versus Mirena or Skyla?
• Is there any reason why I should avoid using an IUD that has hormones?
• What other long-term birth control options would you suggest for me?

It’s important to remember that IUDs don’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).