Intrauterine devices, commonly known as IUDs, have become an increasingly popular birth control option for women in Raleigh seeking to shape their families on their own terms.
IUD use has grown steadily over the past decade as new types have become available and women learn more about the benefits IUDs can offer for conception planning.
For women who may not be ready to have children yet or who wish to space out pregnancies, IUDs provide a safe, effective, and empowering contraceptive solution.
What Are the IUD Options Available?
There are two main categories of IUDs to choose from: hormonal IUDs and the non-hormonal copper IUD. Hormonal IUDs work by releasing a steady dosage of progestin into the woman’s uterus.
Progestin thickens the cervical mucus, thereby preventing sperm from encountering an egg. Popular hormonal IUD brands include Mirena, Liletta, Kyleena, and Skyla. Depending on the type, these can remain in place for 3-8 years.
The copper IUD comes with a small quantity of copper instead of using hormones. The copper triggers an inflammatory response in the uterus that creates unpleasant conditions for sperm, which in turn prevents fertilization.
The copper IUD, available under the Paragard brand name, lasts up to 10 years. Both hormonal and copper IUDs are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
They can be removed from the uterus at any time by a medical provider when a woman wishes to conceive. This reversibility makes IUDs a convenient option for family planning.
Deciding Which IUD is Right for You
Selecting the ideal IUD depends on several personal factors. Hormonal IUDs are the best choice for women who prefer lighter periods or even no periods at all. They can reduce menstrual bleeding and cramping over time.
The copper IUD is a better option for women who would prefer to avoid hormonal contraception and are okay with monthly menstruation.
However, copper IUDs may lead to heavier bleeding and more severe cramps, especially in the first 3-6 months after insertion.
The duration an IUD remains effective is another consideration. Those done with childbearing may opt for a longer-lasting IUD of 5-10 years.
Women who might want to have more kids can select a shorter-acting IUD of 3-5 years.
It is wise to discuss your menstrual preferences, birth control needs, and future family plans with your gynecologist.
Together, you can decide which IUD type and duration is optimal for your lifestyle and conception goals. Do not hesitate to ask questions to make sure you choose the right contraceptive option to empower your family planning journey.
Using IUDs for Family Planning
One of the greatest advantages of IUDs is that they allow women to determine if and when they want to have children.
An IUD can be inserted after giving birth, providing immediate contraception if more time is desired before another pregnancy. When a woman feels ready for another baby, the IUD can be removed.
Fertility quickly returns after IUD removal, so trying to get pregnant can begin right away. For women who know they eventually want children but aren’t quite ready yet, an IUD empowers them to both delay and plan pregnancies.
IUDs also enable women to space out pregnancies in a healthy manner. After one child is born, a new IUD can allow the mother’s body to fully recover before conceiving again.
By preventing closely spaced pregnancies, IUDs provide women control over family planning in a way that is best for their bodies.
In short, IUDs offer women a reversible contraception option convenient for shaping one’s family as desired. They allow you to determine the when, if, and how of pregnancy and childbearing.
IUD Insertion and Removal
Getting an IUD involves a quick and simple procedure in the doctor’s office. Your gynecologist will insert a speculum to visualize the cervix and then gently guide the folded IUD through the cervical opening and into the uterus.
You may experience cramping during insertion, which typically lasts under 5 minutes. Ibuprofen taken about an hour before can help reduce the unpleasant sensations.
It is common to have light bleeding or cramps for a few days following IUD insertion. These side effects generally resolve within 3-6 months as your body adjusts.
IUDs can be removed anytime through a similarly fast and uncomplicated process. Schedule an appointment with your gynecologist when you are ready to have the IUD taken out.
The majority of women can safely turn to IUDs for effective family planning. However, those with current gynecological infections or serious medical problems may not be the ideal candidates. Always share your complete medical history with your doctor to determine if an IUD is appropriate for you.
Shape Your Family Planning Journey with Confidence with Guidance from Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness
When it comes to family planning, being informed, empowered, and in control of your fertility is invaluable. IUDs offer women in Raleigh a convenient and personalized way to shape their families on their terms.
The Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness team is here to guide you in understanding the IUD options to find your perfect match.
Whether you know exactly what you want or need help weighing the pros and cons, our experts will listen to your needs and goals to ensure that the contraceptive method you choose truly fits your life.
Contact Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness today at (919) 636-6670 or book an online consultation to take charge of your future with an IUD tailored for you.