Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are one of the most popular and most effective forms of birth control in the world. They’re small, T-shaped devices that your doctor inserts into your uterus, and they’re more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
If you’re looking for birth control, it’s time to learn more about the benefits of choosing an IUD. Our team at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta can help. We offer contraception consultations, and here’s why IUDs are such a versatile option for so many women.
There are two types of IUDs: hormonal and copper. Both options prevent pregnancy by affecting the way sperm move and by making it difficult for sperm to reach and fertilize an egg.
Hormonal IUDs release a small amount of progestin, a hormone that thickens your cervical mucus to block sperm from reaching the egg. These IUDs also thin your uterine lining, making it less likely for a fertilized egg to implant. Hormonal IUDs can be effective for 3-7 years, depending on the brand.
Copper IUDs don’t contain any hormones. Instead, they use copper, which is toxic to sperm. The copper creates an inflammatory reaction in your uterus that prevents sperm from fertilizing an egg. Copper IUDs can be effective for up to 10 years.
Choosing a birth control method is a very personal decision. You have a lot of factors to consider, and IUDs offer a number of benefits.
IUDs have a failure rate of less than 1%, making them one of the most effective forms of birth control available. Once inserted, an IUD provides continuous protection against pregnancy without the need for daily attention or frequent replacement.
You have no pills to take nor patches to change, and no injections are needed. This "set it and forget it" aspect makes IUDs an appealing option for women who have busy lifestyles or those who prefer a hassle-free birth control method.
Both hormonal and copper IUDs offer years of protection. Hormonal IUDs can last anywhere from 3-7 years, while copper IUDs can last up to 10 years. This means fewer trips to the doctor for replacements or refills, making IUDs a convenient and low-maintenance option for long-term birth control.
IUDs are easily reversible, and there’s no long-term impact on your fertility. If you decide you want to get pregnant, your doctor removes the IUD and your fertility can return in as little as one month.
This makes IUDs a great choice for women who want long-term protection but may wish to conceive in the future.
Both types of IUDs typically have fewer side effects than other contraceptives. With hormonal IUDs, some women may experience lighter periods or even stop having periods altogether, which can be a benefit for those who have heavy menstrual bleeding or painful periods.
Since copper IUDs are hormone-free, they can be an excellent option for women who prefer to avoid hormonal birth control altogether or who can’t use hormones due to medical reasons.
While the initial cost of an IUD may be higher than other forms of birth control, their long-term use makes them cost-effective. Over the years, the cost per month becomes much lower than that of buying monthly packs of pills or other short-term contraceptives.
Many insurance plans also cover the cost of IUDs, which helps further reduce the financial burden.
If you’re looking for a new method of birth control, it’s worth considering an IUD. Whether you opt for a hormonal IUD or a copper IUD, both options provide reliable and reversible birth control that can easily fit into your lifestyle.
Learn more with a consultation at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta. Call our offices in Marietta or Woodstock, Georgia, to get started.
