IUD Birth Control

The intrauterine device, or IUD, is one of the most prevalent reversible birth control methods used by women around the world. With that said, the IUD must be one of the most effective in the market due to its longevity of use, among other things.

Description

The IUD is a T-shaped contraceptive device, which is manufactured from flexible plastic. It must be inserted into the vaginal cavity by a qualified medical practitioner especially an obstetrician-gynecologist. Similarly, removal must be performed in a clinical setting although it may eject on its own, during which time doctor consultation is highly recommended.

The efficiency in contraception for differs according to the time it is inserted. First, it is immediately effective when inserted within 7 days after the menstrual cycle started. Second, protection starts 7 days after insertion when it is done at any time within the menstrual cycle. While protection is yet to start, use another birth control method like the condom.

As a hormonal IUD, Mirena releases 20 micrograms of progestin levonorgestrel over a period of 5 years. When pregnancy is desired, it can be removed and the effects are reversed within 2-6 months.

The IUD works on many levels to prevent pregnancy. First, it reduces, if not completely eliminates, the frequency of ovulation, hence, fertilization is avoided. Second, it thickens the cervical mucus, thus, making it very difficult for the sperm to swim through the uterus. Third, the endometrial lining thins, hence, leading to a reduction in the likelihood of impregnation.

Since the IUD is contraindicated for many health conditions like pelvic tuberculosis and active liver disease, among other things, it is very important to consult a licensed medical practitioner. This way, unacceptable health risks will not aggravate your birth control issues.

Advantages

Its prevalent use is anchored on many advantages, which include but are not limited to:

• Continuous protection against pregnancy for 5 years with success rates of 99.99 percent.

• Easy reversibility within the 5-year period through removal.

• Virtually hassle-free maintenance since the user only needs to check the string after every period and clinical visits are on an annual basis. Unless complications occur, the user need not do anything beyond these two activities.

• Inexpensive method, with one unit costing $300-$400 spread over 5 years, excluding doctor consultations and insertion.

• Reduced menstrual cramps and menstrual blood flow.

For most women, the discreetness of the method is the second-best advantage there is!

Disadvantages

It also has its disadvantages that include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding.

• Pelvic infections weeks after insertion.

• Spontaneous expulsion and uterine wall perforation, although these risks are very low in terms of incidence.

• Lower abdominal and back pain.

• Nausea, acne, headaches, breast tenderness and mood swings.

As you will observe, these disadvantages are minor when compared to the advantages. The important thing in IUD use is to consult your doctor before, during and after use. This way, you are assured of getting optimal benefits from the IUD.