What is an Intrauterine Device (IUD)?
The intrauterine device (IUD), commonly known as a coil, is a birth control method placed inside the uterus made of copper and plastic materials. When correctly applied, it has a contraceptive efficacy rate of approximately 99% and can remain effective for 5-10 years.
What is an IUD?
There are two different types of IUD applications: the classic copper-containing IUD and the hormone-containing IUD. The classic copper-containing IUD, which can also trigger menstrual bleeding, is not recommended for patients who have long and heavy menstrual periods but is preferred for those with regular menstrual cycles and less menstrual bleeding. Hormone-containing IUDs are preferred for cases where menstrual periods are long and bleeding is severe. The amount of progesterone in hormonal IUDs causes thinning of the uterine wall and reduction in menstrual bleeding.
How is the IUD Procedure Performed?
Inserting the classic copper IUD is a straightforward procedure but can be uncomfortable for the patient. It is recommended to insert the IUD during menstruation when the cervix is open. The IUD procedure should be performed in sterile environments such as hospitals, medical centers, clinics, or outpatient clinics to prevent infection.
The procedure involves inserting a thin tube through the cervix and placing the T-shaped device into the uterus. After the IUD is placed in the uterus, the strings protruding from the end are cut to about 1-2 cm below the cervix. Leaving the string allows for easy monitoring of the IUD’s position by the patient. While IUD insertion is generally not a very painful procedure, local anesthesia may be applied by the physician to ensure patient comfort. It is normal to experience cramping and bleeding similar to menstrual periods for a few days after the procedure.
After undergoing the IUD procedure, individuals should be vigilant about vaginal infections. Some individuals may expel the IUD along with menstrual bleeding during their period. In such cases, it is necessary to check the string left in the cervix to determine if the IUD is still in place. Although the IUD is an effective method of birth control, it carries a risk of pregnancy of about 1-2%. Therefore, it is recommended to perform a pregnancy test if there is a delay in the menstrual cycle after the IUD is inserted.
The IUD procedure provides contraception from the moment it is applied and restores fertility immediately after removal. Therefore, individuals who have had an IUD inserted can consult a doctor for removal when they wish to become pregnant again.
Who is Not Suitable for the IUD Procedure?
It is not recommended to insert the IUD for individuals who have recently had pelvic infections, have uterine or cervical cancer, have unusual vaginal bleeding, are at risk of pregnancy, or have Wilson’s disease or copper allergy. Additionally, individuals with breast cancer or at risk of breast cancer are not suitable candidates for IUD insertion.
