Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) ~ Dr.Rabab Mustafa

Family Planning Series (Week 4)

🌸 Family Planning Series – Week 4: Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) 🌸

An Intrauterine Device (IUD) is a small T-shaped device placed inside the uterus by a trained healthcare provider. It is one of the most effective, reversible, and long-acting contraceptive methods worldwide.

🔹 Types of IUDs:

1️⃣ Copper IUDs (Non-hormonal)

Copper T 380A → effective for up to 10 years.
Multiload IUD → curved design, better fit to the uterus, effective 5–10 years.
Silver IUD → copper with added silver core to reduce corrosion, effective for about 5 years.
Gold IUD → marketed in some regions, lifespan 5–10 years depending on brand.

2️⃣ Hormonal IUDs (Levonorgestrel IUS – e.g., Mirena, Kyleena, Jaydess)

Release a small amount of hormone locally.
Effective for 3–5 years depending on the brand.

🔹 How do they work?

Copper IUDs: copper ions are toxic to sperm → prevent fertilization and implantation.

Hormonal IUDs: thicken cervical mucus, thin the endometrium, and sometimes suppress ovulation.

✅ Advantages:

Over 99% effective.
Long-acting → “fit and forget.”
Fertility returns quickly after removal.
Copper IUD can also be used as emergency contraception (within 5 days).

⚠️ Disadvantages:

Copper IUD: heavier or more painful periods at first.
Hormonal IUD: spotting, irregular bleeding, mood changes.
Small risk of perforation or expulsion (rare).
Requires insertion by a skilled provider.

🔹 Non–Family Planning Uses of the Hormonal IUD:

The hormonal IUD is not only for contraception — it has proven therapeutic benefits:
Management of heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia).
Treatment for endometriosis-related pain.
Protection of the endometrium in women using estrogen therapy.
Sometimes used in adenomyosis to reduce symptoms.

📖 Guideline Note (WHO MEC):

IUDs are safe for most women, including adolescents and women who have not given birth.
Contraindicated in women with pelvic infection, unexplained bleeding, or uterine abnormalities.

💡 Key Message:

IUDs come in many types — copper, silver, gold, multiload, or hormonal — giving women safe and long-term choices.

The hormonal IUD goes beyond family planning, offering real health benefits in managing gynecological conditions.

But remember: IUDs do not protect against HIV or STIs. Condoms remain essential for dual protection.

#DrRababCares

#FamilyPlanning #IUD #Contraception #WomensHealth #ForestParkHospital