Intrauterine Device (IUD)

What is an IUD?

An IUD is a small, T-shaped device made from flexible plastic and is used to prevent pregnancy. There are five kinds of IUDs, and all are more than 99% effective:

• Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla work by releasing a small amount of progesterone hormone into the uterus.
• Paragard is 100% hormone free and contains a very small amount of natural copper that works by destroying sperm as they enter the uterus and prevents fertilization.
• Mirena and Paragard can be used as emergency birth control if inserted within the first 5 days after unprotected sex.
• IUDs are considered long-acting reversible contraception, effective for up to the number of years below.
  • Paragard – 10 years
  • Mirena – 8 years
  • Liletta – 6 years
  • Kyleena – 5 years
  • Skyla – 3 years
• Mirena, Kyleena, and Paragard are offered at UHS.

How does it work?

A health care provider inserts the IUD into the uterus.

IUDs may prevent pregnancy by:

• Thickening cervical mucus
• Affecting the way sperm move
• Changing the lining of the uterus
• Preventing ovulation

How effective is it?

IUDs are one of the most effective methods of contraception. Fewer than 1 out of 100 users will get pregnant each year.

What are the benefits?

• While the initial cost is more expensive, over time IUDs are the least expensive and longest lasting method of birth control.
• You do not have to remember to take it every day/week/month or every time you have sex.
• An IUD is a good option for users who cannot use estrogen or who are breastfeeding.
• The Paragard IUD (copper) does not affect your hormone levels.
• Hormonal IUDs may reduce cramps and make your period lighter. Periods may stop altogether, which some users consider a benefit.
• Your ability to become pregnant quickly returns after the IUD is removed.

What are the downsides?

• Spotting between periods for the first 3-6 months.
• Cramps and backache for the first month after the IUD is inserted. With time, these decrease in intensity and frequency.
• With Paragard, you may experience heavier periods and/or increased cramping.
• IUDs do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STI). External condoms or internal condoms can be used to prevent STI.
• The IUD may slip out of the uterus, either partially or completely; this is called expulsion. If it comes out even a little bit, it must be removed. If the IUD slips out, pregnancy can happen.
• Perforation: When an IUD is inserted, it may push through the wall of the uterus, but this is uncommon (less than 1% of users).
• Risk of infection that decreases after the first 20 days after IUD insertion.

How do I check my IUD?

You should check your IUD every month to make sure it has not slipped out. An IUD is most likely to slip out of place during your period. IUDs have strings attached to them. Between periods you can check for the strings by following these steps:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Sit or squat down.
3. Put your index or middle finger up into the vagina until you touch the cervix.
4. Feel for the string ends that should be coming through. If you find them, then the IUD is in place and working.
5. If the strings feel longer or shorter than before, or you feel the hard, plastic part of the IUD against your cervix, the IUD may have moved.
6. If the IUD has slipped out or moved, do not try to put it back in place on your own. Be sure to use a back-up method of birth control until you see your health care provider.

Where can I get it and what are costs?

IUDs (Kyleena, Mirena and Paragard) are available at UHS. 

Please call UHS at 734-764-8320 to schedule in-person services, video visits for contraceptive counseling, for information on the e-consultation for IUD, or for any other questions. 

If you already know you want an IUD, you can do e-consultation:

1. Read about IUD e-Consult Information (PDF)
2. Call 734-764-8320 to schedule an appointment for insertion of the device

See also Cost, Insurance and Payment.

Important tips

Insertion is a sensitive procedure for which a chaperone will be provided. Your clinician will:

1. Put a speculum into your vagina
2. Cleanse the area with antibacterial solution to minimize the chance of infection
3. Put an instrument on your cervix to stabilize it; this will cause cramping
4. Put an instrument into your uterus to measure its depth
5. Insert the IUD

You should not use an IUD if you:

• Have or may have a current STI or other pelvic infection
• Think you might be pregnant
• Have cervical or uterine cancer
• Have unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Are or may be allergic to copper (Paragard IUD only)

Personal experiences

Where can I get more information?

Talk to your health care provider. You can also get reliable information and watch a video from Planned Parenthood.