Intrauterine device (IUD)

A method of birth control.


A form of birth control that involves the insertion of a metal or plastic device into a woman’s uterus, to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg. Some IUDs are biochemically neutral, but others contain hormones that also aid in contraception; a string hangs down to allow women to check that the IUD is still in place. IUDs were popular for some years because the neutral (inert) types could remain in place for up to five years, and they had a high effectiveness rate as contraceptives of 95 to 96 percent. However, some types of IUDs, especially the Daikon Shield, were linked with increased risk of many serious problems, including infection in the reproductive system, septic abortion (with severe infection), perforation of the uterus, pelvic inflammatory dis¬ ease, ectopic pregnancy, and other causes of infertility. Other less serious side effects occurred shortly after insertion, including cramping, dizziness, backache, bleeding, and heavy menstruation. The Daikon Shield was removed from the market in 1974; later the manufacturer agreed to pay medical costs of women injured by their IUDs. Because of these medical and legal problems, many manufacturers have ceased making IUDs in the United States.


Contraceptive device, consisting of a bent plastic or metal (a coil, loop, or other shape) inserted through the vagina into the uterus, where it functions to prevent pregnancy. Complications of lUD use include infection, undetected expulsion, perforation of the uterus, bleeding, and pain.


A device inserted in the uterus for contraceptive purposes.


A contraceptive device, usually made of plastic, that is placed inside the uterus for long periods. It interferes with the fertilization of eggs and the ability of fertilized eggs to attach to the wall of the uterus.


A mechanical device, commonly a coil, inserted into the uterus to prevent conception, probably by interfering with the implantation of the embryo. For many women, IUCDs are an effective and acceptable form of contraception, although only about 10 per cent of women in the UK use them. The devices are of various shapes and made of plastic or copper; most have a string that passes through the cervix and rests in the vagina.


A device composed of plastic, metal, or other material that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It must be inserted and removed by a trained health care practitioner and can stay in place for five to ten years, depending on the type of lUD used.


A contraceptive device comprised of a curved plastic or metal object that is inserted through the vagina into the uterus.


IUD stands for intrauterine contraceptive device. Often referred to as an IUCD or coil, it’s a device placed inside the uterus for birth control purposes. Many IUDs are made of plastic and include copper to enhance their efficiency. There’s a version of the IUD that releases the progestogen hormone, commonly termed as an IUS.


IUDs are thought to prevent a fertilized egg from attaching to the uterus wall.


An IUD is placed into the uterine cavity through the vagina and cervix. Once set, it offers instant protection. Typically, IUDs come with one or two plastic strings for easier removal and to confirm they’re in place. Depending on the kind, IUDs generally require replacement every three to eight years.


Women with prior pregnancies tend to experience fewer complications compared to those who’ve never been pregnant. They might feel less discomfort during insertion and could have milder menstrual periods and reduced chances of IUD expulsion. IUDs are typically not advised for women with fibroids or an irregular shape of the uterus. For those with heavy menstrual flow, an IUS might be suggested as an alternative to an IUD.


A seldom seen complication of IUD use is the piercing of the uterus, usually happening during insertion. It’s rare, but pregnancies can occur while an IUD is in position; in such cases, the IUD typically doesn’t cause issues and can be taken out early in the pregnancy. IUDs elevate the risk of PID, which can result in lasting infertility.


 


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