The diu: intrauterine device
The intrauterine device, generally known by its acronym IUD, is a reversible or temporary contraceptive method widely used by women who want to avoid pregnancy.
Below you have an index with all the points that we will discuss in this article.
Index
The IUD: intrauterine deviceIt must be placed by a medical professional. It is introduced into the fundus of the uterus through the cervix. You also need the help of a professional for your extraction at the time you want maternity.
The duration of contraceptive protection of the IUD depends on the type of device placed. The time of effectiveness of the IUD varies between 3 to 12 years.
Types of IUD
There are two main types of IUD: one that releases hormones and the other without hormones.
- IUD without hormones: It is a plastic structure wrapped with a copper wire in the shape of a T. Some have a center of silver or gold to prevent breakage of the copper wire. Although, as we have said, they are generally T-shaped, they also exist with a circular structure.
- Hormonal IUD: they work with the release of hormones, usually progestins.
Generally, hormonal devices have a shorter duration. The most used one lasts for about 5 years, while the copper IUD can last up to 12 years.
How does it work?
When the uterus detects a foreign body such as the IUD, the release of leukocytes and protaglandins begins. These substances are harmful or harmful to both sperm and eggs and to zygotes. Therefore, the introduction of the IUD has a spermicidal and also abortive effect.
Placement of the IUDAs for the hormonal IUD, the release of progesterone continuously on the uterus prevents pregnancy by:
- Thicken cervical mucus making it difficult for sperm to travel
- It reduces the uterine lining, which decreases the amount and duration of menstrual bleeding.
- It prevents the release of the ovum from the ovary, that is, ovulation does not occur.
Ovulation is not avoided with such high efficacy compared to other hormonal contraceptive methods that in addition to progesterone include estrogen. For this reason, the hormonal IUD as well as the copper IUD can be used during breastfeeding.
The combination of the three mechanisms makes the hormonal IUD has a high contraceptive efficacy, although it is generally less than other hormonal methods of contraception. It is important to bear in mind that neither the hormonal nor the copper IUD avoid the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Advantages and disadvantages
Although initially the hormonal IUD causes irregularities and even more bleeding, after 3-6 months since its placement, the rules are reduced in quantity and duration.
In contrast, the copper IUD increases bleeding and even the headaches and belly associated with it.
Copper intrauterine deviceOn the other hand, both one and another device offer great comfort because you can forget about contraception after placement.
In addition, it can be used in breastfeeding and allows you to seek pregnancy immediately, directly with your withdrawal.
Regarding the main disadvantages, we can point out:
- Pain during placement
- It does not prevent the spread of STDs and may even increase the risk of STDs because it promotes inflammation
- It can not be used by all women. It is not recommended in women with endometriosis, pelvic infections, cervical disorders, cancer, etc.
- A health professional is needed for placement and removal.
- Presents a high displacement or expulsion rate
- If the device displaces and you become pregnant, the risk of miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy and infection is greater.
Taking this into account, the advantages and disadvantages of the IUD should be taken into account when choosing the contraceptive method that best suits the personal situation of each couple.
If you want to compare the different contraceptive methods you can click on the link.
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