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IUD

The Healthy Woman Our Services IUD

The Healthy Woman

OB/Gyns & OB/GYNs located in Snellville, GA & Lawrenceville, GA

When it comes to birth control, intrauterine devices, or IUDs, are one of the better methods for preventing pregnancy. If you’re considering an IUD as a method for birth control, the team at The Healthy Woman in Snellville, Lawrenceville and Atlanta, Georgia, can talk to you about your options. If you’re curious about whether an IUD would be an effective form of birth control for you, call the office nearest you today to schedule an appointment, or book an appointment using the online app.

IUD Q & A

What is an IUD?

An IUD is a T-shaped device your provider inserts into your cervix to prevent pregnancy. Once implanted, you can’t feel it. They’re effective for 3-10 years, depending on the type of IUD the doctor inserts.

There are two types of IUDs:

  • Non-hormonal copper T IUD
  • Hormonal IUD

What is the non-hormonal copper IUD?

The non-hormonal copper T-IUD is made of copper and plastic. Copper is a spermicide and prevents pregnancy by preventing the sperm from fertilizing an egg. The non-hormonal copper T-IUD is effective at preventing pregnancy right away and lasts up to 10 years.

What is the hormonal IUD?

The hormonal IUD contains the hormone progestin levonorgestrel. This hormone prevents pregnancy by thickening mucus in the cervix, which prevents the sperm from swimming to the egg for fertilization. It can take up to a week for the hormonal IUD to be effective at preventing pregnancy, and your provider may recommend using alternative forms of birth control during this period. The hormonal IUD can protect you from pregnancy for three to five years.

Does insertion of an IUD hurt?

You may feel some pain and a little cramping during the insertion of an IUD. However, the pain doesn’t last long, and your provider may recommend medication to alleviate symptoms. Some women experience cramping and spotting for up to six months following insertion of the IUD. Women with a hormonal IUD experience lighter periods after insertion, while those with non-hormonal copper T-IUDs may experience heavier periods and more cramping.

If the IUD comes out, call The Healthy Woman to schedule an appointment for reinsertion. However, once the IUD is out, you’re no longer protected from pregnancy and should use another form of birth control.

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