What is an IUD and why would a woman need or want to get one?
An intrauterine contraceptive device is otherwise known as IUD, a device that is implanted into the uterus/womb of a woman to prevent pregnancy (conception). It comes in a variety of shapes, an IUD can have a T shape, be a triangle, loop or coil. Generally, these are made out of either metal or plastic and is inserted by a doctor.
Is a Pill or the IUD Better?
We see a wide selection of birth control methods on the market today such as pills, under the skin implants and IUD’s. Some women prefer to choose IUD’s or under-skin implants over the pill as a method for birth control. This is typically due to the fact that it is an active form of preventing an unwanted pregnancy that is also long-lasting. It is said to be about twenty times better at stopping unintended pregnancies than a pill or other short-term solutions.
Is This Device Effective or Not?
Intrauterine contraceptive devices are one of the best ways for birth control as it is 99% effective. This means that fewer women that use this device will get pregnant. There isn’t any chance of making a mistake, which is why intrauterine contraceptive devices are so effective. Unlike the pill, you can’t skip it or use it incorrectly like condoms.
Pregnancy with an IUD?
Women are more likely to get pregnant if their intrauterine contraceptive device expires. Yet, this device is said to be 99% accurate and will last for about ten years. When this happens there is a bigger risk of having an ectopic pregnancy, if getting pregnant while using an intrauterine contraceptive device. It is when the fetus develops on the outside of the uterus, thus, it usually grows in the fallopian tubes.
Can A Person Get Cancer Due to Using an Intrauterine Conceptive Device?
In healthy women, an intrauterine conceptive device does not typically cause cancer. However, it may increase a woman’s risk very slightly if used over the long-term. This only applies to devices that contain hormones, those without hormone supplements are said to be safer. Concerns about this and other risks can be discussed with your doctor.
This device can be inserted by your family doctor, plus, it can also be inserted during any time of your menstrual cycle. The procedure is done in the doctor’s office and is a very fast process.
Can This Device Fall Out?
Yes, it is said that this can happen, although the chance of the IUD falling out is very rare. And it is also possible for an intrauterine conceptive device to move out of place. If this happens, it is most likely to happen within the first few months of using the intrauterine conceptive device. Yet, in some rare cases, it happened at a later stage.
Is It Painful?
Some woman has said that they have experienced a small degree of pain when the speculum is inserted into the vagina. Yet, you might experience a bit of cramping or pain when either the intrauterine conceptive device is inserted or when your cervix stabilizes. This normally happens during your menstrual period as the uterus adjusts to the intrauterine conceptive device.
Once the device has served its purpose or reached its expiry date, it will have to be removed and you may also have slight cramping or pain during this process. The cervix might have to be dilated and forceps used to take the intrauterine conceptive device out, especially if it is stuck to a woman's uterus. If this is the case, it is very likely that you will be given a local anesthesia to help make either the discomfort or the painless.
Can The Intrauterine Conceptive Device Be Felt Inside of You?
Neither your partner nor you should be able to feel the intrauterine conceptive device inside of you. You must call your specialist if you do feel it because that means that the intrauterine conceptive device is not in place. However, you will be able to feel the strings that are attached to the end of the intrauterine conceptive device. During intercourse, your partner might also feel the strings of the device.
Can You Gain Weight?
A possible side effect is gaining weight when using a hormonal intrauterine conceptive device as there are not a lot of women that have experienced weight gain when using the intrauterine conceptive device. If you experience any side effects after the intrauterine conceptive device was inserted, you have to contact your specialist, as well as if you have any concerns.