Thinking About Getting An IUD

Pros of the IUD: Very effective against pregnancy (about 99%)

-Provide protection against pregnancy as long as in place in your uterus- protects as soon as inserted (so don’t need to remember to use contraception if you have sexual intercourse) -Doesn’t need daily attention- just need to check to make sure in place at least once a month at time of menstrual period -Comfortable- you and your partner cannot feel the IUD, although you partner may feel the string -The levonorgestrel IUD (Mirena) lessens menstrual flow and can be used to treat heavy periods -Can be removed at any time

Cons of the IUD

-Doesn’t protect against STDs -Needs to be inserted by a health care provider -Should not be used by women who have a high risk of getting a sexually transmitted disease. -It is best for women who have already had children and are in a steady relationship with one partner. -Can fall out or can rarely puncture the uterus -The copper IUD can have side effects such as menstrual cramping, longer and/or heavier menstrual periods, and spotting between menstrual periods -Slightly higher risk for infection in the few weeks after insertion