Intrauterine Device (IUD) is a form of contraception commonly used by women of reproductive age. It is a small, T-shaped device made of plastic and copper that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. IUDs are a safe and effective method of contraception with few side effects.
IUDs work by changing the environment in the uterus to make it inhospitable to sperm and egg. Copper IUDs, which are the most commonly used type, release ions that create an inflammatory reaction in the uterus, which kills sperm and prevents the egg from attaching to the uterus. Hormonal IUDs release a progestin hormone that changes the cervical mucus to make it harder for sperm to reach the egg. This hormone also thins the lining of the uterus so that the egg is unable to attach.
The effectiveness of IUDs is high, with a failure rate of less than 1%. This means that out of 100 women who use an IUD, less than 1 of them will become pregnant. The IUD is also a long-term form of contraception, lasting for up to 5-10 years depending on the type.
IUDs are safe to use for most women, although there are some risks associated with them. These include an increased risk of pelvic infection, increased menstrual bleeding, and perforation of the uterus. Women who have existing health conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease or certain types of cancer should not use an IUD.
IUDs are a convenient and effective form of contraception for many women. They are easy to use and do not require daily action, making them an attractive option for women who are forgetful or have busy lifestyles.
In conclusion, IUDs are a safe and effective form of contraception for many women. They have a high success rate and can last for up to 10 years. However, there are some risks associated with IUDs, so women should consult with their healthcare provider before using this method.
References
Friedman, A., & Harper, C. C. (2020). Intrauterine device (IUD). In StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441917/
Grimes, D. A., Lopez, L. M., Schulz, K. F., & Stanwood, N. L. (2016). Intrauterine devices. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (3). https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD001777.pub3
Kaunitz, A. M., & Gulmezoglu, A. M. (2016). Intrauterine devices: An effective, safe, and underused method of contraception. The Lancet, 388(10053), 1606–1615. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(16)31156-1