IUS and IUD
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Intrauterine system (IUS) Effectiveness: Over 99 per cent effective. Less than one woman in 100 will get pregnant over five years. How it works: A small T-shaped plastic device which slowly releases the hormone progestogen is put into the uterus. This thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm reaching an egg, thins the lining of the uterus to prevent a fertilised egg implanting and may stop ovulation. Advantages: • Works for five years but can be taken out sooner. • Periods usually become much lighter, shorter and sometimes less painful. • You don’t have to think about contraception for as long as the IUS is in place. • When the IUS is removed your fertility will return to normal. Disadvantages: • Irregular bleeding or spotting is common in the first six months. • Periods may stop altogether. Some women report having acne, headaches and breast tenderness. • Very small chance of getting an infection during the first 20 days after insertion. • May get ovarian cysts. Comments: • If fitted after 45 it can stay in place until the menopause. • Women are taught to check the IUS is in place. • Can be useful for women with very heavy and/or painful periods. • A check for any existing infection is usually advised before an IUS is put in. • Not affected by other medicines. Intrauterine device (IUD) Effectiveness: Over 99 per cent effective. Less than one woman in 100 will get pregnant in a year. Older IUDs have less copper and are less effective. How it works: A small plastic and copper device is put into the uterus. It stops sperm reaching an egg, and may also stop a fertilised egg implanting in the uterus. Advantages: • Works as soon as it is put in. • Can stay in 5–10 years depending on type, but can be taken out at any time. • You don’t have to think about contraception for as long as the IUD is in place. • When the IUD is removed your fertility will return to normal. Disadvantages: • May not be suitable for women at risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection. • Periods may be heavier or longer and more painful. • Very small chance of getting an infection during the first 20 days after insertion. • A small increased risk of ectopic pregnancy if the IUD fails. Comments: • If fitted after 40 it can stay in place until the menopause. • Women are taught to check the IUD is in place by feeling the threads high in their vagina. • A check for any existing infection is usually advised before an IUD is put in. • Not affected by other medicines. |
