IUD (Intrauterine Device)

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• QWhat is an intrauterine device (IUD)?

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  A American Diabetes Association answered

  The IUD is a small T-shaped object that is placed into the uterus by a provider. IUDs prevent sperm from reaching the egg or from implanting in the uterus. One type contains copper, and others contain progesterone. IUDs can remain in place for one, five, or ten years, depending on the type.

  IUDs are generally recommended for women who have had one or more children. When properly inserted and retained, IUDs are 95–98 percent effective in preventing pregnancy.

• QWhere can I get an intrauterine device (IUD)?

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  A Dr. Kevin W. Windom, MD , OBGYN (Obstetrics & Gynecology), answered

  Intrauterine devices can be obtained through doctor's office or through the Health Department.

• QHow effective is an intrauterine device (IUD) in preventing pregnancy?

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  A Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine answered

  An intrauderine device (IUD) is over 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. This means that less than 1 in 100 women with an IUD would get pregnant with the device in place in a year.

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• QHow does an intrauterine device (IUD) work?

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  A Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine answered

  An intrauterine device (IUD) works by preventing fertilization. An IUD is  a T shaped device that is placed in the uterus to prevent pregancy.  There are two major types of IUDs -- hormonal IUDs and copper IUDs.  Hormonal IUDs release a hormone thought to stay primarily in the uterus and help prevent sperm from reaching the egg.  Copper IUDs are thought to prevent sperm from implanting in the egg.  IUDs are also thought to cause inflammation in the uterus, which helps prevent implanation.

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• QWhen should I have my IUD removed if I want to get pregnant?

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  A St. Mark's Hospital answered

  Once an IUD is removed, it's an "instant return to fertility" and makes this form of birth control so popular.

• QHow long does an IUD last?

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  A St. Mark's Hospital answered

  A non-hormonal, copper IUD is good for 12 years; a hormonal IUD, depending on the amount of progesterone, is good for 3-7 years.

• QWhat side effects can a copper IUD cause?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  For the first few months after you have a copper IUD inserted you may feel some menstrual pain, crampiness, and spotting (the presence of menstrual blood between periods). You might also notice some vaginal discharge. These problems usually fade within a few months and are less likely to occur with a hormonal IUD.
• QIs the IUD safe for women over 40?

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  A St. Mark's Hospital answered

  An IUD is safe for women over 40, who are still menstruating and need contraception. However, those with fibroids may not make good IUD candidates.

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