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What is the IUD? |
The IUD (IntraUterine Device) is a plastic rod with 2 arms and a string. It is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It is about the size of a quarter. There are 2 types of IUD in the US: the copper IUD and the progestin (hormone) IUD. (To choose the right one for you, see the chart on the other side.) |
How well does the IUD work? |
The IUD works better than the pill, the patch, the ring, and the shot. The IUD prevents pregnancy in 99% of women who use it. |
Is the IUD safe? |
Yes. Serious problems with the IUD are rare, and most happen the first few days. |
Can I get an IUD if I’ve never had a baby? |
Yes. |
How is the IUD inserted? |
After putting a speculum in the vagina, a medical provider inserts the IUD into the uterus. Many providers give pain medicine first. Some women have cramps and spotting for a few hours. |
Does the IUD have side effects? |
Yes. Most side effects improve after a few months. Click here for details. |
Does the IUD cause infections? |
No. |
Does the IUD protect against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections? |
No, the IUD does NOT protect you from sexually transmitted infections. Unless you and your partner have sex only with each other, you should use a latex condom every time you have sex (even with the IUD in place). |
Do I need to check the IUD? |
You should be able to feel the IUD’s string in your vagina. Check the string once a month. If you don’t feel the string, call your medical provider. |
Does the IUD cause an abortion? |
No. The IUD works by preventing sperm from fertilizing eggs. |
What happens when I want to get pregnant? |
Most women get pregnant quickly after a medical provider removes the IUD. |
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Which IUD is right for me? |
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Copper IUD
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Progestin IUD
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| Brand name |
Paragard™ |
Mirena™ |
| How long can you use it? |
10-12 years |
5-7 years |
| Does it contain hormones? |
No |
Yes: low dose of progestin (no estrogen) |
| Side effects |
• Heavy periods
• Cramps with your period |
• Spotting
• Less common: bloating, nausea, headaches, breast pain
• No period after a few months – this is not risky, and many women like it |
| Benefits |
• No need to think about birth control before or during sex
• Private
• No need to buy refills every month
• Works better than the pill, the patch, the ring, or the shot
• Can be used while breastfeeding |
• No need to think about birth control before or during sex
• Private
• No need to buy refills every month
• Works better than the pill, the patch, the ring, or the shot
• Can be used while breastfeeding
• Can decrease heavy periods, cramps, PMS |
| Cost |
• Covered by most insurance plans
• If not covered, may cost a few hundred dollars |
• Covered by most insurance plans
• If not covered, may cost a few hundred dollars |
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These forms are not intended to provide legal, medical or other professional advice. They are not a substitute for consultation with a healthcare provider or for independent judgment by healthcare providers or other professionals regarding individual conditions and situations. |
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