Choosing the right form of birth control takes research. There’s a lot of information out there about condoms, birth control pills, diaphragms and even vaginal rings, but the information on IUDs tends to be a little more scarce. Here are a few facts about intrauterine devices that OBGYNs want you to know:
1.There are a lot of options
When people think of IUDs, they often just think of Mirena. Mirena lasts for five years and releases low doses of progesterone. However, there are a lot of other IUDs available. ParaGard is a hormone-free IUD that protects women from pregnancy for ten years. The newest IUD, Skyla, offers a lower dose of hormones than Mirena and can protect women for three years.
2. IUDs are okay to get before having kids
One of the myths surrounding IUDs is you aren’t able to get an IUD if you haven’t had children. There’s no restriction for age or whether you’ve had children for IUDs. The only benefit of having children prior to getting an IUD is the insertion process might be a little less uncomfortable because the cervical canal has stretched in childbirth.
3. You can remove an IUD if you want to get pregnant
The wings of an IUD that shape to the uterus collapse easily so it can be removed if you’re ready to get pregnant. If you choose Paragard, the hormone-free IUD, you will return to normal fertility within the month. Hormonal IUDs can take up to three months.
4. IUDs might cause menstrual changes
Hormonal IUDs can make periods a much better experience by making them shorter and reducing cramping. However, ParaGard might make your cycle heavier. If you’re currently on a hormonal form of birth control and the added hormones are making your period worse, a non-hormonal option might be better for you.
5. They are more than 99 percent effective
Aside from abstinence, IUDs are the most effective form of birth control. As opposed to the birth control pill, the typical use and perfect use rates are similar for IUDs. If not used perfectly, the birth control pill can result in a nine percent failure rate in comparison to a one percent failure rate for IUDs.
Contact our office if you’re interested in learning more about your birth control options.