What is an IUD?
An IUD (IntraUterine Device) is a small, T-shaped plastic device that is inserted into a woman’s uterus by a healthcare professional that is used to prevent pregnancy. The IUD’s available in the U.S. release a hormone called progestin, which prevents ovaries from releasing eggs. The IUD affects the way the sperm move, which makes them unable to join with an egg. It also thickens the cervical mucus making it difficult for sperm to pass through the cervix to the egg.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
The IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted infections and should not be used as a means of protection.
An IUD can be used for 5 years and sometimes more depending on the brand.
ParaGard and Mirena are the only two IUD brands offered in the US.![IUD2[1] (2) two for blog](http://blog.valentinemedcenter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/IUD21-2-two-for-blog2-300x195.jpg "IUD2[1] (2) two for blog")
Less than 1 out of 100 women will get pregnant each year while using an IUD.
Never attempt to remove an IUD yourself. A healthcare professional can remove or replace an IUD for you. Attempting to remove an IUD yourself can cause severe damage.
You should not use an IUD if you are pregnant or have a sexually transmitted infection. Discuss with your physician whether or not an IUD is right for you.
Have you or someone you know had an IUD? Share your experiences. The lessons from your story may answer another person’s questions.
Tags: Birth Control, contraception, Pregnancy, Prevention, STD's
I am a patient at Valentine Medical Center and I had the Mirena IUD for 3 years and it worked really well. I would recommend it to anyone.
Wow thanks A. Mendoza good to know!!!!
I have the Copper IUD (good for 10 yrs) and I love it, I can’t feel a thing and there is any hormones released so there’s no weight gain or sympthoms. And remember if you decide to have children before the 10 yrs you can always have it taken out.