Mythbusters: IUD Edition
Welcome to MythBusters: IUD edition! The intrauterine device (IUD) is one of the LARC (long-acting, reversible contraception) methods A Step Ahead Tri-Cities offer. This small T-shaped device has become a birth control method preferred by many due to its effectiveness and convenience. However, as is the case with many forms of birth control, there are many misconceptions about IUDs. Let’s debunk some common IUDS myths!
Myth #1- IUDs cannot be used in people who are young or have never been pregnant before
Fact: IUDs are a safe and appropriate birth control method for a wide variety of people. Since IUDs are a LARC method, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American Academy of Family Physicians, AND American Association Pediatricians recommend this method as a first choice of contraception. Also, there are different sizes of IUDs, so talk to your healthcare professional to find the best option for you.
Myth #2- The IUD prevents pregnancy by causing abortions.
Fact: The IUD can prevent pregnancy in three ways. The non-hormonal IUD uses copper to create a toxic environment for sperm, so it either kills/impairs sperm to prevent fertilization. The hormonal IUD can thicken mucus on your cervix to block sperm from entering the uterus and prevent your eggs from being released from your ovaries (a process called ovulation). Thus, the mechanisms of the IUDs occur prior to fertilization.
Myth #3- IUDs can cause infertility
Fact: Once the IUD is removed, your fertility returns to its baseline. This means your fertility returns to what it was before the IUD. Studies show that the pregnancy rates of hormonal IUD users are similar to those who used no method or stopped using barrier methods like condoms.3 Most people can become pregnant within the first year after having the IUD removed.
Myth #4- IUDs can cause pelvic infection (PID: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease)
Fact: IUD users are at no increased risk of infections compared to non-IUD users. Proper insertion technique reduces the risk of infection by following prevention procedures. However, IUDs can worsen the effects of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) if the infection was present before IUD insertion. Therefore, it is important to test for infections before insertion. Another way to prevent infection is to use condoms because IUDs do not protects from STIs.
Myth #5-IUD insertion is painful
Fact: Everyone has a different level of pain intolerance. Discomfort can be common in IUD insertions, but many have reported that IUD insertion is similar to a heavy period cramp. The entire procedure is 5 minutes total, and afterward you get 3-10 years of effective birth control. If concerned, taking over-the-counter pain medication may help with cramping due to insertion.
Myth #6- IUD strings are noticeable
Fact: The IUD strings hang slightly below your cervix. The strings tend to soften and curl over time, but you should be able to feel the strings to check if your IUD is present. Most partners will not be able to feel the IUD strings. If they do, there should not be discomfort. If the strings are bothering you or your partner, you can ask your doctor to cut them shorter. However, may result in you not being able to feel your strings to check your IUD, and could potentially make IUD removal more difficult. Talk to your doctor about this one for sure!
Interested in birth control but are concerned about cost, transportation, or provider choice? call/text us at 423-415-0277 or visit us at ASAFTC for more information.
Source:
Moore, A. A., Kaunitz, A. M., & Yates, J. (2018, August 28). 5 IUD myths dispelled. MDedge ObGyn. Retrieved July 8, 2022, from https://www.mdedge.com/obgyn/article/77424/contraception/5-iud-myths-dispelled
IPPF. (2022, April 19). Myths and facts about the intra-uterine device (IUD). IPPF. Retrieved July 8, 2022, from https://www.ippf.org/blogs/myths-and-facts-about-intra-uterine-devices
Mansour D, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Inki P, Jensen JT. Fertility after discontinuation of contraception: a comprehensive review of the literature. Contraception. 2011;84(5):465-77.
