Intrauterine Device (IUD)
The intrauterine device (IUD) is a birth control device placed into
a woman's uterus by a health care provider.
It is usually made of plastic or metal
with a string attached. IUDs that contain
copper can stay in the uterus for up to
10years. It is very efficient and as an
added benefit compared with tubal ligation
fertility returns with the removal of
the IUD.
Mirena, the IUDs that contain the female
hormone progesterone can stay in place
up to 5 years. It is successfully used
also in controlling severe bleeding of
Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding (DUB).
Contraindications:
• Heavy menstrual bleeding and
of unknown cause.
• An infection in any of your ovaries,
uterus, fallopian tubes
• Pregnancy or history of ectopic
pregnancy.
• Cancer in the uterus or cervix.
• Do not use a copper IUD if you are allergic to copper or metals
The IUD is inserted during a menstrual period, when the cervix is slightly
open and you are least likely to be pregnant. It takes only a few minutes
to insert an IUD. You may feel some cramping pain when the IUD is being
inserted. You may be given a local anesthetic or pain medicine to help
control discomfort during insertion. During the first few months after
insertion of an IUD, check often for the attached string to be sure
that the IUD is still in the uterus. You should also check for the string
after every menstrual period. You can do this by putting a finger inside
the vagina and feeling for the string near the cervix. As long as you
can feel the string, the IUD is in position and it is unlikely that
you will become pregnant. If you feel the hard plastic of the IUD, it
is no longer in the correct place and you will have to see your health
care provider to change it.
Women do not have a harder time getting
pregnant after removal of an IUD than
they do after the use of other forms of
birth control.
Call the doctor if you:
• Cannot find the IUD string.
• Have vaginal discharge with a bad odor.
• Have severe, unexpected pain in your lower abdomen, especially
if it happens when you have intercourse.
• Have a fever with no apparent cause.
• Think you might be pregnant with the IUD still inside the uterus.
• Want to have the IUD removed.
If interested in learning more call Dr. Marcovici at 860-409-1930 for
an appointment!!!
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