IUD Specialist

What is an IUD?

An IUD is a very small, flexible, T-shaped device that your gynecologist at Arbor Obstetrics & Gynecology places in your uterus to prevent pregnancy. The IUD is 99% effective and offers 5-10  years of continuous protection, depending on which IUD is chosen. When you no longer want to prevent pregnancy, the procedure is completely reversible.

What are the benefits of an IUD?

One of the biggest benefits of an IUD is that it is more than 99% effective, meaning your chances of getting pregnant while on it are extremely slim. Other benefits are that IUDs:

• Provide continuous, long-term protection
• Don’t interfere with intercourse
• Don’t require you to remember to take a pill or place a patch
• Are completely reversible
• Are a safe form of birth control for women who have health conditions that make other forms of birth control unsafe for them.
  
  

Some IUDs help regulate your menstrual cycle and minimize your risk for cervical cancer.

Are there different types of IUDs?

Yes. There are two main types of IUDs: hormonal and non-hormonal. Your doctor at Arbor Obstetrics & Gynecology is extremely knowledgeable about the varieties of IUDs and their advantages and disadvantages.

Based on your health history and goals, she’ll help you choose an IUD that meets your needs. Two of the brands offered at Arbor Obstetrics & Gynecology are:

Mirena®

Mirena® uses the hormone levonorgestrel to block your pregnancy. Like all IUDs, it’s 99% effective. Placement takes only about 15 minutes and does not require surgery, incisions, or any downtime. Mirena is a popular choice because it works for up to five years and is reversible at any time.

Paragard®

Instead of hormones, Paragard® uses a thin layer of copper to prevent pregnancy. It, too, has a 99% success rate. It works without hormone-related side effects for up to 10 years and can easily be removed if you wish to become pregnant.

How is an IUD inserted?

Following a comprehensive pelvic exam, your gynecologist uses a speculum to open your vagina. After cleansing the area, she’ll go through your cervix with a special inserter to position the IUD into your uterus.

You may be apprehensive about the IUD placement, but it doesn’t hurt. Most women say they only feel a slight tugging or minor pinching. You may have mild cramps or spotting afterward, but typically they go away within a day or two.

To determine if you’re a good candidate for an IUD, call the office to book a consultation or schedule an appointment online.