IUD Side Effects

Before we begin in discussing what IUD side effects can be, its important to know what they are. IUD’s, or intrauterine devices, are plastic or copper contraceptives that are shaped like the letter “T” and used for pregnancy prevention. Made of progesterone, they regularly release low doses of the female hormone everyday. There’s no right or wrong type of IUD to use. Plastic is not better than copper, and vice versa. It’s all up to a woman’s personal preference as to which one she wants. Regardless of whether plastic or copper is used, the main objective of an IUD is all the same. One of two things can happen when an IUD is used as far as preventing pregnancy is concerned. The first option is that the female hormone, progesterone, can change the uterine lining and prevent implantation. The second option is that a woman’s cervical mucus can be changed, thus killing sperm immediately upon entry.

With a failure rate of less than 1%, it’s safe to say that IUD’s are a very good choice for women or couples who are not prepared an unexpected pregnancy. To determine whether or not a woman is physically able to successfully maintain an IUD as a means of contraception, a doctor or licensed professional must perform a pelvic exam. After a pap smear and a series of STD tests, only then will the gynecologist give an okay if the exams come back negative. After this is done, the doctor will then insert the IUD into the patient’s vagina, through the cervix, finally placing the device in the uterus. Approximately 3 months later, usually a follow up visit is required just to make sure that the patient is doing well and with very few IUD side effects. If the visit goes well, then a woman typically won’t need to see her gynecologist again until the IUD needs to be removed, which could be anywhere from 5 or more years later.

There are certain women who are ruled out when it comes to choosing an IUD, because of certain health risks IUD side effects can occur. Of course, a doctor will ultimately be the judge of this. To be on the safe side, it should be kept in mind that IUD’s should not be used by women who have had abnormal bleeding, uterine or cervical cancer, STD’s, or who may be pregnant. Like any form of contraception, IUD’s also share some form of side effects in one way or another. These IUD side effects, are not limited to, the following: nausea, breast tenderness, changes in mood, acne, and pelvic infections.