The intrauterine device (IUD) has the advantage that you do not have to remember about it every day like you do with a hormone pill. The spiral (as the intrauterine device is commonly called) is inserted every few years. Find out what the pros and cons of an IUD are, and if this method of contraception is right for you.

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IUDis a popular and effectivemethod of contraception . The insert resembles the letter T. The spiral is put on and taken out by the doctor during menstruation. It is an almost painless procedure. Possible pain symptoms are usually not greater than during normal menstruation, they disappear after taking painkillers.

The spiral is made of plastic with the addition of copper or silver, sometimes also hormones. The spiral is recommended for women who have already given birth and do not plan to have babies quickly, and for those who cannot use oral contraception.

IUD used as emergency contraception partially prevents embryo implantation

How does the IUD work?

IUD works on many levels:

  • changes the consistency of the mucus, which slows down the movement of sperm;

Pearl's index ranges from 1 to 4, and in the case of hormonal spirals, 0.2 to 1 (for three years of use).

  • copper ions have a spermicidal effect;
  • the presence of the insert hinders the movement of sperm and egg;
  • causes slight inflammation in the uterus (sterile, in the absence of bacteria), which reduces the possibility of proper implantation of the embryo after fertilization of the egg

On the other hand, hormonal inserts are additionally equipped with a container with progestogen, which is gradually released into the uterus. The mucus thickens, the sperm cannot move.

Advantages of the spiral

The hormone insert inhibits the growth of the uterine mucosa, thanks to which the periods are less abundant and shorter by up to 2 days.

We pay PLN 80-850 for the insert, depending on the type, but the cost is spread over many years.

This type of spiral can also be used as a medicine for heavy periods. In addition, it protects against the development of fibroids and polyps.All types of spirals can be used by breastfeeding ladies. The IUD can be removed after the period of use prescribed by the manufacturer or when the woman wants to become pregnant. It can be inserted immediately after the puerperium (6 weeks after delivery or 8 weeks after caesarean section). There is no evidence that miscarriages are more common after IUD removal.

Defects of an IUD

During the first months after inserting a traditional IUD, the bleeding may be more intense, in the case of a hormonal IUD this problem does not occur. Traditional IUDs, that is, without hormones, can increase the risk of infection in the reproductive organs. The insert cannot be used by women:

  • with acute inflammation of the reproductive organ,
  • with untreated chronic recurrent adnexitis,
  • with conditions that may worsen during inflammation (e.g. endocarditis or heart valve disease),
  • with diseases that reduce the body's natural immunity (AIDS, diabetes)
  • with changes to the uterus (including myomas), as the IUD could prove less effective and increase bleeding.

Contraception: barrier methods of contraception

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Pregnancy