NDSU
Student Health Service
Choices Program
Your Reproductive Health
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
The IUD is a small, T-shaped polyethylene
device that is inserted into the uterus by a health care professional.
The IUD is thought to work primarily by preventing sperm from
fertilizing an egg.
There are two kinds of IUDs: one contains copper (Copper T) and provides contraception that is effective for ten years. The other IUD releases a small amount of progestin (a form of the female hormone progesterone produced naturally by the ovaries). Although it is considered to be an intrauterine device, it works through the release of the hormone progestin into the bloodsteam. It provides contraceptive protection for 5 years. Both types of IUDs must be inserted and removed by a health care professional.
Because the IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted disease, it is a good choice for women in monogamous, mutually faithful relationships and who have no history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
IUDs are intended to prevent pregnancy. They do not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
The effectiveness for either type of IUD is 99%.
- The IUD must be inserted and removed by a health care professional. Insertion may cause some cramping and discomfort. A short string protrudes from the cervix. This string is used to remove the device. It also provides a way for a woman to check to make sure that the IUD is still in place.
- There is nothing further to do before, during, or after sex.
- The IUD string should be checked after each monthly period.
- Depending on the type of IUD you choose,
IUDs are 99% effective when used correctly.
- Once a nonhormonal IUD (Copper T) is removed, fertility can return in as little as one month.
- With removal of a hormonal IUD, return to fertility may take as long as one year.
Possible Side Effects with the IUD
Progestin-releasing IUDs may cause:
- Mood swings
- Acne
- Headache
- Breast tenderness
- Nausea
Non-hormonal (Copper T) IUDs may cause:
- More cramping
- Heavier periods
- Increased risk of pelvic infection
You should not use an IUD if you have any of the following conditions:
- If you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant
- If you have pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or a history of PID
- If you have Wilson's disease or a copper allergy
- If you or your partner have multiple sexual partners
- If you have an abnormally shaped uterus
- If you have cancer of the cervix or uterus or have an abnormal Pap test
- If you have any vaginal bleeding without a known reason
- If you have a condition that would make you more susceptible to infection during insertion of an IUD. These conditions include, but are not limited to, leukemia and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)
- If you have an untreated infection of the cervix or uterus, including an infection called bacterial vaginosis, until the infection is controlled
- If you have an infection called genital actinomycosis
- If you are hypersensitive to any component of a progestin-releasing IUD
- When using a progestin-releasing IUD, if you have or suspect you have cancer of the breast
- When using a progestin-releasing IUD, if you have a history of ectopic (tubal) pregnancy or a condition that would make you more susceptible to an ectopic pregnancy.
- If you have a previously inserted IUD that has not been removed