The IUD is a contraceptive system in the form of T that is inserted into the uterus, has an efficiency of 99% and is the most used in the world.
What is an IUD?
The IUD (Intrauterine Device) is a small device that is placed inside the uterus to prevent a possible pregnancy. A little thread hangs the device from the cervix to the upper part of the vagina. The IUD has a half life of 5-10 years depending on the model. The effectiveness is high than 99%: Studies of the World Health Organization (WHO)
Types of IUDs
- Copper IUD (Paragard): plastic device wrapped by a small copper wire, not intended for women who are allergic to copper.
- Hormonal IUD (Mirena): gradually releases small concentrations of synthetic progesterone.
Mechanism of contraceptive action
The presence of the IUD in the uterus stimulates the release of prostaglandins and white blood cells from the endometrium, as a mechanism of body’s reaction to a foreign body.
The substances released in the presence of IUDs have spermicidal action and also destroy fertilized eggs and zygotes, the presence of copper increases the spermicide effect and acts as a very effective contraceptive.
The IUD prevents pregnancy to occur because it prevents the sperm fertilizes the egg. It also modifies the endometrium so that if the egg is not fertilized it can implant and thus has no place to grow.
Advantages of IUD insertion
- It is one of the safest contraceptive methods.
- Its effectiveness starts from day one to be inserted.
- It is a reversible method, fertility returns when removed when pregnancy is desired.
- The effective period lasts between 5 and 10 years.
- It is an inexpensive method considering longevity.
- It is a device imperceptible so do not interfere with sexual intercourse.
- Once inserted the IUD and not have to worry about further action prior to intercourse as the pill every day or interrupt foreplay to wear a condom.
- The copper IUD is compatible with breastfeeding.
- The IUD has a low rate of side effects.
- The liver and stomach are not affected because there is administered orally.
- One of the best advantages of the IUD Mirena is that it reduces the intensity and duration of menstrual bleeding and discomfort and pain.
- Mirena IUD, increase hemoglobin and serum ferritin and risk of uterine fibroids and ectopic pregnancy are reduced compared to traditional copper IUD.
Disadvantages side
- There are women who suffer bleeding and pain in the first two weeks since its inception.
- The IUD may cause discomfort such as intestinal pain, pelvic cramps and back pain.
- For many women the copper IUD causes a more heavy periods or menstrual pain, but usually decrease after several months, as the uterus gets used to the foreign body.
- Some women have inter menstrual bleeding or losses.
- Increases the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease in the months after placement.
- Slightly increases the risk of infertility or difficulty of getting pregnant when the IUD is removed.
- The IUD does not protect against STDs (STIs), including HIV / AIDS.
Does the IUD is suitable for all women?
The IUD is a contraceptive method ideal for women who have only one stable partner, and there is no risk of acquiring sexually transmitted diseases. Do not use the IUD in the following cases:
- Pregnancy
- Allergy to copper (do not use copper IUDs, others without problem)
- More than one sexual partner
- STD risk
- Recent history of pelvic inflammatory disease or STD
- Cervical cancer, endometrial or ovarian and if you need treatment
Recommended
If you do not have a regular sexual partner is not recommended because IUD use, does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, in which case it is best to use a condom.