IUD

IUD stands for "intrauterine device" and represents a birth-control method. It is a T-shaped piece of plastic that is often covered with copper wire. Some IUDs also contain hormones or come in different shapes. The IUD sits inside the uterus and prevents pregnancy by not allowing a fertilized egg to attach itself to the wall of the uterus. If a fertilized egg cannot attach and grow, it is unable to develop into a fetus.

Two appointments with your health-care provider are required for an IUD insertion. The first appointment will include information, an exam, and laboratory screenings to determine your suitability for an IUD. The second appointment consists of inserting the IUD and providing follow-up instructions. The IUD is usually inserted during your menstrual period. The IUD requires little maintenance. There is a small nylon thread attached to it; you must check to feel that it is still there after every period. That way, you know the IUD is still in the uterus. You do this by inserting a washed finger high into the vagina, where you will feel the thread.

When you wish to discontinue the use of an IUD, it must be removed by a health-care provider. Most IUDs can be removed easily by a practitioner. Removal is best done during a menstrual period, but it can be performed at other times if necessary. The IUD has a life span of 1 to 10 years depending on which type of device is used.

Who has the best success with an IUD?
Women who:
* have had children but do not wish to have more
* have no history of pelvic infections
* have no history of sexually transmitted diseases
* have only one sexual partner

Before you get an IUD, consider this:

The IUD is effective immediately upon insertion. It allows spontaneous sex. There is no mess.

You may have heavier, longer, crampier periods, as well as possible spotting between periods.

There is a possible increased risk of vaginal infections and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can lead to infertility.

The IUD can be expelled from the body without you knowing it.

Effectiveness
Perfect-use failure rate: 1.5 percent
Typical failure rate: 5 percent

The IUD is not recommended for most young women, and it is not a recommended form of birth control for teenagers. The IUD can be expelled from the uterus without a young woman knowing it, leaving her unprotected. Also, since the uterus in a teenager is still growing, an IUD is not recommended.

Plastic and copper IUDs need to be replaced about every 10 years. IUDs with hormones must be replaced every year.