An intrauterine device, commonly called an IUD, is a small contraceptive device placed inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy. IUDs are among the most effective forms of reversible birth control and can provide contraception for several years, depending on the type.
There are two main types of IUDs: hormonal IUDs and copper IUDs. Although both are placed inside the uterus, they work differently and may have different effects on menstrual bleeding and cramping.
Understanding the types of IUDs, their benefits and risks, the insertion process, and what to expect afterward can help you determine whether an IUD may be appropriate for you.
What Is an IUD?
An IUD is a small, usually T-shaped device that a healthcare professional places inside the uterus.
Once inserted, an IUD provides continuous pregnancy prevention without requiring you to remember a pill every day.
IUDs are considered long-acting reversible contraception (LARC). They can remain in place for several years, but they can also be removed by a healthcare professional whenever you decide you want to stop using the method.
After removal, fertility generally returns quickly.
What Are the Types of IUDs?
There are two primary categories of IUDs:
- Hormonal IUDs
- Copper IUDs
Both are highly effective at preventing pregnancy, but their mechanisms and effects on periods differ.
Hormonal IUDs
Hormonal IUDs release a small amount of the hormone levonorgestrel, a type of progestin, into the uterus.
Hormonal IUDs primarily work by:
- Thickening cervical mucus
- Interfering with sperm movement and function
- Thinning the uterine lining
- Suppressing ovulation in some users
Hormonal IUDs can remain effective for several years, depending on the specific product.
They may also make periods lighter and reduce menstrual cramps for some women.
Copper IUDs
The copper IUD does not contain hormones.
Instead, copper creates an environment in the uterus that interferes with sperm movement and fertilization.
The copper IUD can provide long-term contraception and may remain effective for many years, depending on the specific device.
Because it contains no hormones, it may be an option for women who prefer a non-hormonal contraceptive method.
However, copper IUDs can make menstrual bleeding heavier or cramps stronger, particularly during the first few months.
How Effective Are IUDs?
IUDs are among the most effective reversible contraceptive methods available.
Because an IUD remains in place and does not require daily action, its effectiveness does not depend on remembering to take a pill every day.
This can be particularly convenient for women who want long-term pregnancy prevention without having to manage contraception every day.
Benefits of IUDs
IUDs offer several potential benefits.
Long-Lasting Pregnancy Prevention
Depending on the type, an IUD can provide contraception for multiple years.
This allows women to avoid having to refill prescriptions or remember contraception every day.
Highly Effective
IUDs are highly effective at preventing pregnancy when correctly placed.
Reversible
An IUD can be removed at any time by a trained healthcare professional.
Pregnancy can occur after removal, and fertility generally returns quickly.
Low Maintenance
Once an IUD is inserted, there is little daily maintenance.
This can make it a convenient option for women who prefer not to take a daily contraceptive pill.
Hormonal IUDs May Improve Periods
Hormonal IUDs can make periods lighter and may reduce menstrual cramps.
Some women may eventually have very little bleeding or no menstrual bleeding while using a hormonal IUD.
Copper IUDs Do Not Contain Hormones
For women who prefer to avoid hormonal contraception, a copper IUD provides long-term pregnancy prevention without hormones.
What Happens During IUD Insertion?
IUD insertion is performed by a healthcare professional in an office or clinical setting.
The process generally involves:
- Reviewing your medical and reproductive history
- Confirming that an IUD is appropriate for you
- Performing a pelvic examination
- Inserting the IUD through the cervix and into the uterus
- Positioning the device correctly
- Leaving small strings extending through the cervix into the vagina
The strings allow a healthcare professional to check the IUD’s position and make removal possible later.
The insertion itself is usually relatively quick, although you may experience cramping or discomfort.
Does Getting an IUD Hurt?
IUD insertion can cause cramping or discomfort, and the experience varies considerably from person to person.
Some women experience only mild discomfort, while others have stronger cramps during or shortly after insertion.
Factors such as individual pain sensitivity, cervical anatomy, previous pregnancies, and anxiety can influence the experience.
Talk with your healthcare provider before the procedure if you are concerned about pain. They can explain what to expect and discuss appropriate options for managing discomfort.
What to Expect After IUD Insertion
Mild cramping and spotting are common shortly after insertion.
Depending on the type of IUD, you may experience changes in your menstrual bleeding during the following weeks or months.
With a hormonal IUD, irregular spotting may occur initially, followed by lighter periods over time.
With a copper IUD, periods may become heavier or more painful, particularly during the first few months.
Your healthcare provider can explain what changes are expected for your specific IUD.
IUD Risks and Possible Complications
IUDs are generally safe for many women, but complications can occur.
Potential risks include:
- Cramping and bleeding
- Expulsion of the IUD
- Perforation of the uterus during insertion
- Infection associated with insertion
- Pregnancy while an IUD is in place
Serious complications are uncommon, but it is important to understand the warning signs and contact a healthcare professional when necessary.
What Is IUD Expulsion?
IUD expulsion occurs when the device partially or completely comes out of the uterus.
Expulsion can occur without obvious symptoms, but possible signs include:
- Feeling the hard part of the IUD
- Strings suddenly feeling longer or shorter
- New or unusual cramping
- Unexpected bleeding
- Feeling that something has changed with the position of the device
If you think your IUD has moved or fallen out, contact your healthcare provider.
Do not attempt to reposition the IUD yourself.
Can an IUD Cause an Infection?
The overall risk of pelvic infection associated with an IUD is low, but an infection can occur around the time of insertion, particularly if an untreated sexually transmitted infection is present.
For this reason, your healthcare provider may assess your sexual and reproductive health and recommend STI testing when appropriate.
An IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Condoms can help reduce the risk of many STIs when used correctly and consistently.
Can an IUD Perforate the Uterus?
Uterine perforation means that the IUD passes through the uterine wall during insertion.
This is a rare complication.
The risk may vary depending on individual circumstances, including whether someone is recently postpartum or breastfeeding.
Your healthcare provider can discuss your individual risk factors before insertion.
Can You Get Pregnant With an IUD?
Pregnancy with an IUD in place is uncommon because IUDs are highly effective contraceptives.
However, if pregnancy does occur while an IUD is in place, medical evaluation is important because the pregnancy needs to be assessed promptly, including evaluation for ectopic pregnancy.
Contact a healthcare professional if you have an IUD and experience:
- A positive pregnancy test
- Severe pelvic or abdominal pain
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Dizziness or fainting
Severe pain, fainting, or heavy bleeding may require urgent medical attention.
IUDs and Periods
One of the biggest differences between IUD types is their effect on menstrual bleeding.
Hormonal IUDs may:
- Make periods lighter
- Reduce menstrual cramps
- Cause irregular spotting during the first months
- Eventually result in very light or absent periods for some users
Copper IUDs may:
- Increase menstrual bleeding
- Increase menstrual cramps
- Cause more noticeable menstrual changes during the first few months
If you already have heavy or painful periods, your gynecologist can help you consider how different IUD options may affect your symptoms.
Can You Use an IUD If You Have Never Been Pregnant?
Yes.
Having never been pregnant does not automatically prevent someone from using an IUD.
IUDs can be appropriate for many women regardless of whether they have previously given birth.
Your healthcare provider can evaluate your individual anatomy, medical history, and contraceptive needs.
Can Teenagers and Young Women Use IUDs?
IUDs can be appropriate for adolescents and young adults who want highly effective, reversible contraception.
Age alone does not determine whether an IUD is appropriate. A healthcare professional can discuss the available options and help determine which method fits the patient’s circumstances.
Can an IUD Affect Fertility?
IUDs are reversible forms of contraception and generally do not cause permanent infertility.
After an IUD is removed, fertility typically returns quickly.
If you are planning to become pregnant, talk with your healthcare provider about removing the IUD and preparing for pregnancy.
How Is an IUD Removed?
IUD removal is generally a quick office procedure.
A healthcare professional gently pulls the device using the strings extending through the cervix.
Most removals are straightforward, although the process can occasionally be more complicated if the IUD has moved or the strings cannot be located.
Do not attempt to remove an IUD yourself.
When Should You Contact Your Gynecologist After IUD Insertion?
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Severe or worsening pelvic pain
- Heavy vaginal bleeding
- Fever or chills
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Pain during sex that is new or severe
- A positive pregnancy test
- Concern that the IUD has moved or fallen out
- Inability to feel the strings when your provider has instructed you to check them
Some cramping and spotting can be expected after insertion, but significant or worsening symptoms should be evaluated.
IUDs and Sex
Once you have recovered from insertion and your healthcare provider has advised that sexual activity is appropriate, an IUD generally does not interfere with sex.
Some partners may occasionally feel the IUD strings, but the device itself is located inside the uterus.
If sex becomes painful after IUD insertion or you develop new pelvic pain, talk with your healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions About IUDs
How long does an IUD last?
The duration depends on the specific IUD. Some devices provide contraception for several years, so your healthcare provider can tell you exactly how long your chosen device is approved to remain in place.
Which is better: a hormonal or copper IUD?
There is no single IUD that is appropriate for every woman. Hormonal and copper IUDs have different characteristics, particularly regarding hormones and menstrual bleeding.
Your choice may depend on your reproductive goals, menstrual symptoms, medical history, and preference for hormonal or non-hormonal contraception.
Can an IUD fall out?
Yes. IUD expulsion is possible, although it does not happen to most users.
If you notice changes in the strings, feel the device, or experience unusual cramping or bleeding, contact your healthcare provider.
Can an IUD stop my period?
Hormonal IUDs can make periods very light or cause menstrual bleeding to stop in some women. This is not generally the expected effect of a copper IUD.
Does an IUD protect against STIs?
No. IUDs prevent pregnancy but do not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Condoms can help reduce STI transmission.
Can I get an IUD immediately after giving birth?
In some circumstances, an IUD can be placed shortly after childbirth. Timing and eligibility depend on individual circumstances, and your healthcare provider can discuss the appropriate options with you.
Can I get an IUD after an abortion?
An IUD may be an option after an abortion when medically appropriate. Your healthcare provider can determine the appropriate timing based on your individual situation.
How soon can I become pregnant after IUD removal?
Fertility can return quickly after IUD removal. If you are not planning pregnancy, another contraceptive method should be started according to your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
IUD and Women’s Healthcare in Eagle Pass, Texas
Choosing an IUD involves more than simply selecting a contraceptive device. Your healthcare provider can consider your menstrual history, reproductive goals, medical conditions, medications, and preferences when discussing contraception.
Women in Eagle Pass, Texas, who are considering an IUD can speak with a gynecologist about hormonal and non-hormonal options, the insertion process, potential side effects, and what to expect after placement.
Discuss IUD Options at Southwestern Women’s Clinic
If you are considering an IUD or want to learn more about long-term birth control, a gynecologic consultation can help you understand your options.
At Southwestern Women’s Clinic in Eagle Pass, Texas, women can discuss contraception and reproductive health concerns with a healthcare professional and determine which options may be appropriate for their individual needs.
Contact Southwestern Women’s Clinic to schedule a consultation and learn more about IUDs and other birth control options.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. IUD eligibility and contraceptive recommendations should be determined with a qualified healthcare professional based on your individual medical history and reproductive goals. If you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting, fever, or other concerning symptoms, seek prompt medical attention.
