When you visit your Women’s Healthcare Professional and inquire about birth control, you’ll have several options to choose from. An intrauterine device (IUD) is one of the most popular, low-maintenance options for several reasons. Learning about its basics will help you decide if it’s right for you. Below are four frequently asked questions about this form of birth control.

Common IUD Questions, Answered

An IUD is a T-shaped device that is implanted in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two options: non-hormonal copper (Paragard) and hormonal-levonorgestrel (Kyleena, Liletta, Mirena, and Skyla). The latter uses the hormone progestin to prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg, while copper ones deter the sperm from reaching the egg to fertilize it.
 

How is it inserted?

The insertion process generally takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish. You may be given a numbing agent to prevent discomfort, and then special instruments will be used to gently place the IUD into your uterus through your cervix. You may experience some cramping and discomfort for a few minutes during and after the procedure, but it goes away quickly and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
 

Is it effective?

IUDs are 99% effective when correctly implanted by a reliable Women’s Healthcare Professional, and they protect against pregnancy for 5 or more years (depending on the birth control brand). Unlike pills, patches, or injections, their efficacy doesn’t depend upon your ability to remember to take a pill, change a patch, or get an injection.
 

Are there any side effects?

Most common side effects occur as a result of the implantation and are mild and temporary. They include dizziness, cramping, backaches, and headaches during and for a few days after implantation. Other side effects include irregular spotting and periods. Rare but severe risks include infection or the IUD pushing through your uterine wall. You’ll need to speak with your gynecologist or family planning specialist about your risk level for adverse effects and if an IUD is safe for you.

To discuss your birth control options with an experienced Women’s Healthcare Professional, reach out to the Oswego County OB-GYN PC in Oswego and Fulton, NY. Since 1960, their experienced staff has provided comprehensive women’s healthcare to residents across Oswego County, including obstetrics, gynecology, family planning, preventive screenings and vaccinations, infertility treatments, and advanced surgical procedures. Their compassionate staff works with you to deliver the best level of care in a comfortable setting each time. View their services online and call (315) 343-2590 to schedule a consultation.