Procedure - IUD

With so many birth control options available to women, it can be hard to choose the right one. Many women opt for an intrauterine device, or IUD, because they are effective, long-lasting, and reversible. An IUD has little day-to-day maintenance and can be placed right in your doctor’s office. If you want to get pregnant someday, but currently require an effective form of birth control, contact Ogden Clinic Gynecology in Utah for an IUD.

How Does an IUD Work?

An IUD is a small “T” shaped device that is inserted into the uterus by your gynecologist. Most IUDs release small amounts of progestin, a hormone found in most birth control pills. This stops sperm from reaching eggs and fertilizing them. The most common kinds of IUDs are Kyleena, Mirena, Skyla, and Liletta. These IUDs often make periods lighter, so they are also a good option for women suffering with heavy periods. The other kind of IUD, ParaGard, is a copper IUD that is hormone-free. The copper in ParaGard signals your immune system to prevent pregnancy. Hormonal IUDs are generally replaced every 3 to 5 years, whereas a copper IUD can last up to 10 years. Talk to your gynecologist about the length of time they recommend for your IUD.

An IUD can be inserted during an office visit with your gynecologist. You may want to take over-the-counter pain medication prior to your appointment to prevent cramping during and following the procedure. You will be positioned similarly to a Pap smear and your doctor will insert a small tube containing the IUD into your vagina, through the cervix, and into the uterus. The IUD will then be pushed out of the tube, the tube will be removed, and you will have a string that hangs off the IUD, 1 to 2 inches into the vagina. Once inserted a copper IUD is effective immediately, while a hormonal IUD can take up to 7 days to be effective, depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle.