Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsProsConsTypesMythsMaking a Choice
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Pros
Cons
Types
Myths
Making a Choice
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, plastic, T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It is a safe and effective birth control method for many people.
A healthcare provider can insert an IUD in an outpatient clinic or office. Once in place, an IUD can provide effective pregnancy prevention for years. Possible IUD side effects include discomfort during insertion and an increased risk of certain health conditions and infections.
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Pros of Getting an IUD
An IUDis an effective and safebirth control method. Many people opt for IUDs because of the convenience and long-lasting pregnancy prevention.
Long-Lasting
IUDs provide long-lasting contraception without having to take a daily pill. There are different types of IUDs, and they last for a long time:
Proven Effectiveness
IUDs provide effective pregnancy prevention. IUDs are 99% effective at preventingpregnancy.Fewer than 1 in every 100 couples who use an IUD will experience an unexpected pregnancy.
Once your healthcare provider places an IUD, you will likely not need to think about it for years. There is no need to take daily medication or take extra pregnancy-preventing precautions every time you have sex.
It is important to note that while IUDs are effective at preventing pregnancy, theydo not preventsexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Can Be Used as Emergency Contraception
Unlike many other types of birth control, IUDs can provideemergency contraception. If placed within five days of unprotected sex, an IUD can prevent pregnancy.If you need emergency contraception, call your healthcare provider right away.
Options Available for Heavy Periods
In addition to providing effective contraception, IUDs may provide relief from heavy periods. One type of IUD releases the hormone progestin. Thishormonal IUDmay reduce or even stop menstrual blood flow.If you have very heavy periods, talk with your healthcare provider about the pros and cons of an IUD.
What to Know About Getting an IUD for Endometriosis
Available for Multiple Ages
IUDs are safe and effective for people of different ages. They may be helpful for young people who do not plan to become pregnant for years. They are also a good option for people who have been pregnant and do not want to become pregnant again.
Can Remove Any Time
An IUD is a long-term birth control method that can be removed at any time. A trained healthcare provider can remove your IUD when you are ready. Your body becomes fertile and able to get pregnant again almost immediately after your IUD removal.
May Help Prevent Endometrial Cancer
People who use an IUD may have a lower risk ofendometrial (uterine) cancer. Progestin-releasing IUDs may protect against endometrial cancer. Both copper and progestin IUDs may protect against cervical cancer.
An IUD causes cell changes in theuterusthat prevent the development and growth of cancer cells. Talk with your healthcare provider if you have questions about your endometrial cancer risk.
How Effective Is an IUD for Pregnancy, PMS, and More?
Cons of IUDs
An IUD is not right for everyone. There are risks associated with IUDs, so it is important to discuss all of the pros and cons with your healthcare provider.
A common risk of IUDs is pain with insertion.To place an IUD, your healthcare provider will first wash the cervix with an antiseptic solution, then slide a plastic tube with the IUD through the vagina and into the uterus. Once the tube is inside the uterus, the provider will push the IUD into the uterus with a plunger and remove the tube.
Many people find the insertion process somewhat painful or uncomfortable. It is possible to feel cramping pain during and after the procedure.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated medical practice recommendations in August 2024 to suggest providers use lidocaine to numb the cervix during IUD placement.
Side Effects During First Few Months
IUDs may cause side effectsduring the first few months after insertion. Immediately after insertion, you may feel some discomfort and cramping pain. It is also possible to feel dizzy and light-headed after the procedure.
Some people report cramping pain and backaches in the weeks and months after IUD insertion. You may also experience heavier periods in the months after receiving a copper IUD. People who receive a progestin-releasing IUD may experience irregular bleeding or spotting in the first few months.Talk with your healthcare provider if you continue to experience pain without relief.
Small Risk for Ectopic Pregnancy
There is a small risk of ectopic pregnancy with an IUD. Anectopic pregnancyoccurs when a fertilized egg implants into tissue outside of the uterus. In an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg cannot develop and grow, and the condition can become life-threatening for the pregnant person.
Your risk of ectopic pregnancy may be higher if you become pregnant while using an IUD. It is important to note that people who use IUDs have a very low risk of becoming pregnant.
While it is very rare, an IUD can tear (perforate) the uterine wall during insertion. About 1 in every 1,000 people will experience uterine perforation with an IUD insertion. When a perforation occurs, the healthcare provider needs to perform surgery to remove the IUD.
The Two FDA-Approved Types of IUDS
A progestin IUD also thins the uterine lining. This usually results in decreased or stopped menstrual blood flow.
Common Misconceptions
Some misconceptions and myths you may have heard about IUDs include:
How to Decide What Birth Control Method Is Right for You
When choosing a birth control method, it is important to consider several factors including your age, desire to become pregnant in the future, potential side effects, lifestyle, sexual partners, and overall health.
An IUD may be a good fit for you if you want to avoid daily birth control pills and the risks of contraceptive hormones. A progestin-releasing IUD may be helpful if you have heavy periods.
An IUD may not be for you if:
Summary
IUDs are not for everyone. It is common to experience discomfort during an IUD insertion. Do not get an IUD if you are pregnant or have cervical or endometrial cancer. A healthcare provider must insert and remove an IUD. IUDs may cause symptoms such as bleeding, spotting, and cramping in the first few weeks to months after insertion.
Talk with your healthcare provider about whether an IUD could be the right fit for you.
11 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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