Intrauterine Device – IUD – The Effectual Birth Control Coil – Part I

The intrauterine device (IUD) is a long-standing birth control means that has high effectiveness and safety quotient. The currently available IUD’s are quite a contrast to those there were employed during the 1970’s.

An IUD is a miniature plastic device resembling the letter ‘T’, swathed in copper or could contain hormones. The insertion of the IUD is a procedure carried out by a doctor who inserts it into the uterus. The IUD has a plastic string that is attached to the IUD end that dangles down through the cervix into the vagina. The IUD could be checked for its correct placement by feeling for the presence of the string. This string is additionally employed by the doctor during the removal procedure of the IUD.

IUD Types

• LNg or Levonorgestrel IUD – This type of IUD is additionally known by the name ‘Mirena’ that works by releasing levonorgestrel – a type of progestin. The effectiveness of LNg IUD has been noted to being slightly more than copper IUD in the prevention of pregnancy. It might lower the chances of developing pelvic inflammatory disease or PID which is an added benefit not noted in other IUD’s. The LNg IUD has been found to be effectual for a span of five years.
• Copper IUD – The widely used IUD is the copper IUD (for e.g. Paragard). The T-shaped IUD has a copper wire wrapped around its stem portion. The copper IUD is known to stay in situ for a period of at least ten years and is quite an effective contraception means.

Working Principle

Both the kinds of IUD’s are known to hinder fertilization of the egg by having a marring effect on the sperm. The IUD additionally has an effect on the lining of the uterus which is the lodging and growing location for the fertilized egg.

• LNg IUD – The LNg IUD operates by thickening the mucus in the cervix that acts like a barrier for the sperms attempting to make an entry into the uterus, thus impeding fertilization. LNg IUD also avoids the endometrial lining of the uterus from becoming quite thick that in turn makes the endometrial lining an unfavourable place for implantation and growth of the fertilized egg. The hormones present in the LNg IUD also cause a reduction in monthly periods flow and associated discomfort due to cramps.
• Copper IUD – Copper has a lethal effect on the sperm. It causes the uterus and fallopian tubes to produce fluid rich in WBC or white blood cells, copper ions, enzymes and prostaglandins that have a fatal impact on the sperm.

Popularity: 4% [?]