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Contents 10
- What Is an IUD and How Does It Work?
- Types of IUDs and How They Work
- Effectiveness of the IUD as a Birth Control Method
- Can You Get Pregnant While Using an IUD?
- When Should an IUD Be Inserted?
- What Should Be Done If Pregnancy Occurs While Using an IUD?
- When Should an IUD Be Removed?
- 1. When the Period of Use Has Ended:
- 2. In the Case of a Desire for Pregnancy:
- 7. In the Case of Suspected Pregnancy:
What Is an IUD and How Does It Work?
An IUD (intrauterine device) is a small birth control device placed inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It is usually T- or Y-shaped, and in recent years, versions with beads along the coil (the "Ballerina" or beaded IUD) have also become available. Its main body is made of plastic, and in most cases the plastic is wound with copper coils. Besides copper-containing IUDs, there are also IUDs that contain silver or the hormone progestin. An IUD prevents pregnancy by blocking sperm cells from reaching the uterus or by making it difficult for a fertilized egg to implant in the uterine wall.
Types of IUDs and How They Work
IUDs are classified into two main categories: copper-containing IUDs and hormone-containing IUDs. Copper IUDs work through a mechanism that kills sperm and makes the environment inside the uterus unsuitable for sperm. Hormone-containing IUDs, on the other hand, thin the uterine lining and thicken the mucus at the cervix, making it difficult for sperm to reach the uterus. In this way, sperm cells are prevented from fertilizing the egg.
In Which Situations Is an IUD Not Suitable?
Although the IUD is a safe and effective birth control method for many women, it is not recommended for use in certain situations. Situations in which IUD use is not appropriate include:
Active Pelvic Infection: An IUD can cause a pelvic infection to spread to the uterus and fallopian tubes.
Uterine or Cervical Cancer: IUD use may not be safe in these cases.
Abnormal Uterine Structure: An IUD may not be able to be placed correctly in an abnormally shaped or sized uterus, which can reduce its effectiveness.
Copper Allergy: Copper-containing IUDs are not recommended for women with a hypersensitivity or allergy to copper.
History of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): An IUD can increase the risk of PID in these women.
Unexplained Vaginal Bleeding: IUD use is not recommended for women whose vaginal bleeding has not been investigated and diagnosed.
Suspected Pregnancy: In cases of suspected pregnancy, IUD placement is not recommended until pregnancy has been ruled out
Effectiveness of the IUD as a Birth Control Method
When inserted correctly, the IUD provides a very high level of birth control protection. The effectiveness of copper-containing IUDs is approximately 98% during the first year of use. Hormone-containing IUDs (such as Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla) show a similarly high effectiveness of 99%. This means that only one out of every 100 women is likely to become pregnant within a year. However, effectiveness may decrease if the IUD shifts out of place or is expelled.
Can You Get Pregnant While Using an IUD?
No birth control method offers 100% protection; therefore, although rare, it is possible to become pregnant while using an IUD. Effectiveness may decrease if the IUD shifts out of place. In addition, because there is a risk of displacement within the first month after insertion, a check-up is essential during this period.
When Should an IUD Be Inserted?
An IUD is usually inserted during the last days of the menstrual period, when the cervix is more open. Inserting the IUD during this period makes the procedure easier and more comfortable. It also rules out the possibility of any pregnancy.
The IUD can be an effective option for women looking for a reliable, long-term birth control method. However, you should always consult a health professional to determine the most suitable birth control method for you.
What Should Be Done If Pregnancy Occurs While Using an IUD?
Although pregnancy is quite rare while using an IUD (intrauterine device), there are some important steps to be aware of if this situation occurs. The steps to take if pregnancy occurs with an IUD in place are as follows:
1. Pregnancy Test and Confirmation:
If you notice signs of pregnancy while using an IUD, you should first confirm the situation with a pregnancy test. If the test is positive, it is important to see a doctor immediately.
2. Medical Evaluation:
Once pregnancy is confirmed, your doctor may request an ultrasound to determine the location of your IUD and whether the pregnancy is inside the uterus or is an ectopic (outside the uterus) pregnancy. The risk of ectopic pregnancy may be somewhat higher while using an IUD, which is why this evaluation is vital.
3. Removal of the IUD:
If the pregnancy is inside the uterus, your doctor may recommend removing the IUD. If the IUD is not removed, the risks of bleeding, miscarriage, preterm birth, and infection can increase. However, removal of the IUD should be performed early in the pregnancy. This procedure is carried out carefully in order to reduce the risk of miscarriage.
4. Pregnancy Follow-Up:
The pregnancy may continue after the IUD is removed. However, if the IUD cannot be removed, or if the pregnancy continues after removal, your doctor will monitor you closely throughout the pregnancy. This follow-up is important for the early detection and management of any complications.
5. In the Case of Ectopic Pregnancy:
If the pregnancy is detected outside the uterus—that is, developing in the fallopian tube or another location outside the uterus—urgent treatment may be required.
6. Psychological Support:
Becoming pregnant while using an IUD can be an unexpected and stressful situation. Getting psychological support during this process can help you manage the situation in a healthier emotional way.
The course of action to take in pregnancies that occur with an IUD in place depends on a detailed evaluation and consultation process with your doctor. In every case, it is very important to receive professional medical guidance in order to protect your health and make the best decision
When Should an IUD Be Removed?
An IUD (intrauterine device) is usually used as a long-term birth control method, and its duration of use varies depending on the type of IUD. However, the appropriate time for removing an IUD is determined based on personal preferences, health status, and various other factors. Here are the situations in which an IUD may be removed:
1. When the Period of Use Has Ended:
Copper-Containing IUDs: These are generally effective for 10 years. At the end of this period, since the IUD's effectiveness will decrease, it may need to be removed and replaced with a new one.
Hormone-Containing IUDs: Hormone-containing IUDs such as Mirena, Kyleena, and Liletta are generally effective for 3-5 years. At the end of this period, the IUD needs to be replaced.
2. In the Case of a Desire for Pregnancy:
If you are planning a pregnancy, the IUD should be removed. Fertility generally returns immediately after the IUD is removed, and the chance of pregnancy increases.
3. In the Case of Side Effects or Complications:
If uncomfortable side effects related to IUD use occur (pain, irregular bleeding, infection), your doctor may recommend removal of the IUD. In addition, serious conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) may require urgent removal of the IUD.
4. After Menopause:
After menopause, since the need for birth control no longer exists, the IUD can be removed. There is no harm in leaving the IUD in place after menopause, but its removal is generally recommended during this period.
5. In the Case of Displacement or Expulsion:
If the IUD shifts out of place or is expelled, its effectiveness decreases and it may need to be removed. In this case, your doctor may recommend placement of a new IUD.
6. Decision to Switch to a New Birth Control Method During IUD Use:
The IUD can also be removed if you want to try a different birth control method. In this case, it is advisable to have the IUD removed as the new method is started.
7. In the Case of Suspected Pregnancy:
If pregnancy is detected while an IUD is in place, the doctor generally recommends removal of the IUD. This is important in order to prevent possible complications.
8. Routine Replacement Time:
The IUD should be checked at regular intervals. During routine check-ups, your doctor will inform you about when your IUD needs to be replaced or removed.
Removal of an IUD is usually a quick and simple procedure, but it is important that it be performed by a health professional. Before having your IUD removed, discussing with your doctor when it should be removed and what to be aware of during this process is the right first step to take.