What is an intrauterine form of birth control?
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, flexible device that is inserted into the uterine cavity. IUDs come in different shapes and differ in composition (hormonal and non-hormonal), some help in the treatment of gynecological diseases, but the main function is to protect against unwanted pregnancy. Many women prefer the IUD, as they have undeniable advantages:
- low price;
- high efficiency;
- therapeutic effect on the mucous membrane of the uterus;
- no negative impact on lactation;
- the ability to become pregnant immediately after removing the spiral;
- maintaining the quality of intimate relationships.
How do intrauterine devices work to prevent pregnancy?
The spiral causes aseptic, that is, microbial, inflammation of the endometrium – the mucous membrane lining the uterus from the inside. At the same time, macrophages accumulate in the endometrium – special immune cells that absorb viruses or bacteria during illness. However the installation of the coil is not a disease, and there are no bacteria in the uterus. Therefore, macrophages destroy sperm and eggs before they meet, and if fertilization has occurred, they damage the structure of the egg, and pregnancy does not occur. You may consider Ava Health for getting an IUD.
Is it possible to get pregnant after getting an IUD?
If a woman has a copper IUD inserted, there is practically no possibility of getting pregnant. However, if pregnancy has occurred, there are 3 options for further action:
- artificial termination of pregnancy;
- removal of the IUD;
- preservation of pregnancy without removing the spiral.
What are the contraindications for getting copper and hormonal IUDs?
Intrauterine contraceptives are strictly prohibited when:
- pregnancy;
- acute or subacute inflammatory diseases;
- oncology;
- a previous ectopic pregnancy;
- pathologies of the uterus;
- painful periods;
- submucous uterine myoma;
- previously occurring spiral expulsions;
- allergies to product materials;
- no history of childbirth.
How is IUD inserted and romoved?
The IUD is best placed 2-3 days before the end of your period. Before the insertion, the doctor conducts an examination, takes smears for microflora and the degree of purity, does an ultrasound of the uterus and tubes. If a woman has undergone an artificial abortion, then the spiral can be inserted immediately, after natural childbirth – after 2-3 months.
Installation of an intrauterine device after a cesarean section is also possible. However, you will have to wait 4-6 months for the stitches to heal and the uterus to return to normal size. The procedure is absolutely painless and takes place in an outpatient clinic. During the first day, aching pains in the lower abdomen may appear.
The first week after the procedure, a woman is strictly prohibited:
- take hot baths;
- actively engage in sports;
- allow sexual intercourse;
- use laxatives and uterotonics.
You can remove an IUD for three reasons:
- at the request of the patient;
- in case of complications;
- after the expiration date.
Before removing the spiral, an ultrasound scan is performed to determine the location of the contraceptive. Further, expanding the cervical canal, the IUD is pulled out by special “antennae”. When the antennae are absent, the procedure is performed in a hospital setting. If the spiral enters the endometrium and at the same time the woman does not feel discomfort, it is not worth removing the contraceptive so as not to provoke the appearance of complications.