Despite the emergence of innovative options, intrauterine devices (IUDs) remain among the most popular methods of contraception. In fact, according to a report by the United Nations, roughly 159 million women worldwide were using IUD birth control in 2019 alone.
There are a number of reasons IUDs are still widely used. In this blog, you’ll learn about the remarkable advantages of intrauterine devices.
IUDs Are Highly Effective
According to Planned Parenthood, both copper and hormonal IUDs are more than 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy.
Some birth control options are only effective when used properly and consistently; whereas with IUDs, once you get one, you don’t have to do anything else to prevent pregnancy. This makes them not only effective but also convenient.
Hormonal IUDs Can Ease Heavy or Painful Periods
If you have very heavy or painful periods, hormonal IUDs may be a great option for you.
Levongestrel-releasing IUDs – which contain the second-generation progestin, levongestrel – can help relieve menstrual cramps by suppressing the production of prostaglandin, a hormone-like substance that causes uterine muscles to contract strongly. Additionally, levongestrel intrauterine systems thin the lining of the uterus. This means not as much blood builds up, so your periods may become lighter, or even completely go away, which is normal.
IUDs Can Be Used as Emergency Contraception
Copper IUDs – nonhormonal devices made of a thin copper wire wrapped around a plastic frame – are nearly 100 percent effective at preventing pregnancy if placed within 5 days of unprotected sex. Hormonal IUDs also work well for postcoital contraception.
If you are worried the condom broke when you last had sex and were considering getting an IUD at some point anyway, the copper IUD could be a great option for you.
IUDs Provide Long-Lasting, Reliable Protection
Another advantage of IUDs is that they last for years. Depending on the brand, hormonal IUDs can last up to 6 years (and FDA approval is being considered for its official effectiveness up to 8 years), while copper IUDs can last for up to 10 to 12 years. This makes IUDs a great option for women who want long-term birth control they don’t have to worry about.
IUDs Are Completely Reversible
If you decide to get pregnant in the future, all you have to do is to get your healthcare provider to remove the device, and you can become pregnant right away. This means that despite their efficacy at preventing pregnancy, IUDs don’t affect future fertility.
IUD Birth Control in Kent, Washington
If you’re contemplating getting an IUD and you want to learn more about it, talk to one of our board-certified family nurse practitioners here at FamilyCare of Kent. We will gladly provide you with everything you need to know about this birth control method and explain your choices in detail to help you decide.
Schedule an appointment with one of our nurse practitioners today. Call us at (253) 859-2273, fill out our appointment request form here. We look forward to providing you with top-notch reproductive health care!