The IUD
An Effective Form of Birth Control
The IUD or Intrauterine Device is a method of birth control used by millions of women world-wide. It was developed over a hundred years ago and is considered a safe and effective method of preventing conception. However,fewer than 2% of women in Canada take advantage of the IUD's benefits. The IUD is easy to insert, cost-effective, causes few side effects and is reversible.
What is an IUD?
IUD's in Canada come in two kinds: the copper coil or the progestin-releasing kind. The former is known by the brand name Nova-T or Flexi-T. The latter is called Mirena. Both are small T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus. They work by inhibiting sperm, establishing a conception-resistent environment in the womb. The copper IUDs don't use hormones to prevent fertilization like the Mirena. The Nova-T is the most common IUD and more cost effective than the Mirena type. Nova-T IUD's cost less than 100 dollars and last up to five years following insertion.
How is it inserted?
Make an appointment with a physician to take place during one's period. The doctor will have already tested one for venereal diseases. The cervix will be swabbed to ensure cleanliness and prevent any chance of infection. The IUD is inserted in a speculum. It only takes a few minutes and may cause minor cramping. The string, which hangs down through the cervix, not the vagina, is then trimmed. One should return to the doctor six weeks later to make sure the IUD has not been expelled. After this time, the risk of infection or loss of the IUD is minimal.
What are the risks?
There are few side effects caused by IUD's. The most common one is heavier cramping and bleeding during periods. Some women experience bleeding in between cycles. This reaction usually settles down after a few months. The IUD should only be used by women in monogamous relationships. The device does not protect against STDs and venereal diseases can travel more quickly up the IUD's string if condoms are not used. In rare cases, the IUD can cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disorder, which can lead to infertility. If one gets pregnant while using an IUD, it is more likely to be ectopic, or in the falllopian tubes. This is also an uncommon situation. In the past, doctors would only insert IUDs in women who had completed their families. The IUD is now considered so safe, however, that even very young women in stable relationships have them.
What are the benefits?
IUD's are worry-free for the most part. Once they are inserted, apart from checking once a month to make sure the string is still in place, one can forget they're even there! They prevent up to 98% of pregnancies. One only needs to purchase a new one every five years, making them highly cost effective. They are easy to remove and cause no lingering side effects. Women report a strong level of satisfaction with this reliable method of birth control.
Disclaimer: This article is based on research and experience. Please consult with your doctor prior to making any health care decision.
The IUD
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