The choice of contraceptive device is essential for pregnancy prevention to be effective and long-lasting. The Intrauterine Device, or IUD, is a hassle-free and reliable birth control method with a 99% pregnancy prevention rate. 

This guide explores the types, uses, functions, insertion procedures, benefits, risks, and potential complications of IUDs. Whether you are preparing for a medical exam or seeking in-depth knowledge about contraception, knowing about IUDs can be helpful in various aspects. 

Keep reading!

What is an IUD?

An IUD (Intrauterine Device)  is a small, T-shaped contraceptive device that is placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It is one of the most effective and long-lasting methods of birth control available today, ranging from a period of 3 years to 10 years. 

Based on the type, IUDs may start working immediately or after a few weeks, and they can be easily removed by a healthcare provider when one decides to conceive.  

What are the Different Types of IUDs?

There are two main types of intrauterine devices:

1. Copper IUD (Non-Hormonal IUD)

The copper IUD is an intrauterine contraceptive device that releases copper ions into the uterus and is non hormonally active. In other words, these ions cause an inflammatory reaction that is toxic to sperm and prevents the fertilisation of eggs.

• How it Works: Copper changes the cervical mucus and the uterine environment so that it is inhospitable to sperm.
• Duration: Can last up to 10 years.
• Benefits:
  • Highly effective and long-lasting.
  • It can be used as emergency contraception if it is inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex.
  • It does not affect natural hormones, so it’s a good option for people who can’t take hormonal birth control.
• Considerations:
  • In some users, it may also cause heavier periods and more menstrual cramping.
  • Not suitable for those with copper allergies or heavy menstrual bleeding issues.

2. Hormonal IUD

The hormonal IUD releases a very small amount of the synthetic hormone progestin to prevent pregnancy. It thins the uterine lining, thickens cervical mucus to block sperm, and may suppress ovulation.

• Types of Hormonal IUDs: Available in different brands and hormone dosages, with varying durations.
• Duration: It depends on the brand and can last 3 to 7 years.
• Benefits:
  • It decreases menstrual bleeding and cramps, which is suitable for those who bleed considerably or have endometriosis.
  • Offers high pregnancy prevention effectiveness.
  • It could be used to treat conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and others.
• Considerations:
  • It can also cause irregular spotting or light periods, especially in the first few months.
  • Mild hormonal side effects like headaches or changes in mood may be noticed in some users.

Comparison Table of IUD Types

Here is a comparison of the various types of IUDs:

IUD Type	Contains Hormones?	Duration	Key Benefits	Potential Side Effects
Copper IUD	No	Up to 10 years	Long-lasting, hormone-free, emergency contraception	Heavier periods, cramps
Hormonal IUD	Yes (Progestin)	3 to 7 years	Helps with problems related to menstrual disorders, reduces the cramps and makes the periods lighter.	Spotting, mild hormonal effects

Understanding the various kinds of IUD types allows an individual to choose a device they feel will adequately serve their contraceptive needs.

Who and When to Use an Intrauterine Contraceptive Device?

The table below contains individuals who can and cannot use IUDs:

Can Use	Cannot Use
This includes healthy people, including transgender and nonbinary people.	You had a recent pelvic infection or sexually transmitted disease (STD).
Suitable for those with one partner and low risk of STDs.	You are pregnant.
Individuals seeking hormone-free contraceptive options.	You have cervical or uterine cancer.
People who have or haven’t had children.	You experience unexplained vaginal bleeding.
Individuals seeking to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding.	People with copper allergy or Wilson’s disease (for copper IUD).

What are the Benefits of Intrauterine Contraceptive Devices?

Apart from preventing pregnancy, an IUD comes with great benefits:

• Highly Effective: More than 99% success rate.
• Long-lasting: It may last for several years, based on the type.
• Reversible: Fertility returns soon after removal.
• Convenient: No daily pills or frequent doctor visits.
• Can be Used for Medical Conditions: Hormonal IUDs can also tackle heavy periods or endometriosis.

What is the Procedure to Insert Intrauterine Devices?

An intrauterine device (IUD) is usually inserted by a healthcare provider in a clinical setting. The following is an overview of the steps:

1. Preparation:

• Before the procedure, the doctor may recommend taking an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever like ibuprofen to reduce the pain.
• To ensure the IUD can be safely placed, a pregnancy test and pelvic exam are usually done.

2. Positioning:

• During the procedure, the patient is in a dorsal lithotomy position (lying on their back with their legs placed in stirrups).

3. Cervical Cleaning:

• As a precaution against infection, the provider will wipe the cervix and vagina with an antiseptic solution.

4. Measuring the Uterus:

• An IUD sound (a sterile thin instrument used to measure the depth and position of the uterus to confirm that the IUD is properly positioned in the uterus) is used.

5. Insertion:

• An applicator tube that holds the IUD is loaded and inserted through the cervix into the uterus.
• If correctly placed, the IUD then opens into a T shape and fits securely within the uterine cavity.

6. Trimming the Strings:

• Upon insertion, the provider trims the IUD strings so that the tips are not fully inserted into the vagina. These strings are easy to remove later.

7. Post-Insertion:

• After the procedure, the patient can experience mild cramping or spotting, which will pass in a few days.
• In some cases, a follow-up visit is scheduled to check that the IUD is situated properly.

What are the Risks and Complications of Intrauterine Devices?

Despite their benefits, IUDs come with their fair share of risks and complications. They are as follows:

Risk/Complication	Description
Cramping and Spotting	Common for a few days post-insertion.
Expulsion	In rare cases, the IUD may be pushed out of the uterus.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)	An IUD slightly raises the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Symptoms include: Belly pain, Pain during sex, Smelly discharge, Heavy bleeding, Chills & Fever
Uterine Perforation	Rare but possible if an IUD punctures the uterine wall.
Risky Pregnancy	An IUD provides very low chances of pregnancy. However, if one does conceive, they have higher chances of getting an infection, miscarriage, or early labour. Also, there is a risk of ectopic pregnancy.

FAQs About IUDs

1. Can an IUD be used as emergency contraception?

Yes, If inserted within 5 days after unprotected sex, the copper IUD can be used as emergency contraception. It is one of the best ways to prevent pregnancy after intercourse.

2. Can I use tampons or menstrual cups with an IUD?

While one can use tampons and menstrual cups with an IUD, individuals have to be careful not to tug on the IUD strings when using them.

3. Does an IUD cause weight gain?

In some individuals, hormonal IUDs may cause a slight weight change, but large weight gain is rare. Meanwhile, copper IUDs do not affect weight.

4. Can an IUD move or get dislodged?

Although rare, it is possible for an IUD to shift or become expelled from the uterus, and this is more likely to happen in the first few months after insertion. The IUD strings can be regularly self-checked to ensure they remain in place.

5. Is it painful to get an IUD inserted?

Insertion may cause a little discomfort or cramping, but this varies among people. The procedure is normally very quick, taking only a few minutes.

6. Do IUDs cause abortions?

An IUD will prevent conception and is not abortifacient. However, it doesn’t terminate a pregnancy and can be used as emergency contraception. IUDs are expected to stay legal despite abortion laws becoming stricter.

7. What is the IUD full form in medical? 

The full form of IUD in medicine is Intrauterine Device.

Conclusion

An IUD is a safe, effective, and convenient long-term contraceptive device. Based on the IUD type, individuals can also solve various other sexual and menstrual health needs and easily remove it for conception by visiting a healthcare provider.  

While there are some risks, they are rare, and most people may face only a few complications. If you are thinking about opting for an intrauterine device, visit a doctor for professional advice. At DocTutorials, we cover several other healthcare topics, along with high-quality video lectures, expert guidance, mock test,s and more that can be ideal for medical aspirants. Start your preparation for NEET PG 2025 and move one step nearer to securing your desired medical seat!